Pricing
Book a Demo

Citric Acid Price Trend and Forecast

UNSPC code: 12352106
|
âźł Weekly Update
|
Historical Data Since 2015
|
Forecast for 2026

citric acid Price Trends by Country

cnChina
inIndia
arArgentina
mxMexico
jpJapan
nlNetherlands
beBelgium
itItaly
deGermany
thThailand
usUnited States

Global citric acid Spot Market Prices, Trend Analysis and Forecast

Price-Watch’s most active coverage of Citric Acid price assessment:

  • Monohydrate FOB Shanghai, China
  • Anhydrous FOB Shanghai, China
  • Monohydrate CIF Nhava Sheva (China), India
  • Anhydrous CIF Nhava Sheva (China), India
  • Anhydrous Ex-Mumbai, India
  • Monohydrate CIF Buenos Aires (China), Argentina
  • Anhydrous CIF Buenos Aires (China), Argentina
  • Monohydrate CIF Manzanillo (China), Mexico
  • Anhydrous CIF Manzanillo (China), Mexico
  • Monohydrate CIF Tokyo (China), Japan
  • Anhydrous CIF Tokyo (China), Japan
  • Monohydrate CIF Rotterdam (China), Netherlands
  • Anhydrous CIF Rotterdam (China), Netherlands
  • Monohydrate FD Antwerp, Belgium
  • Monohydrate FD Milano, Italy
  • Monohydrate FD Hamburg, Germany
  • Anhydrous FOB Laem Chabang, Thailand
  • Anhydrous CIF Houston (Thailand), USA

Citric Acid Price Trend Q3 2025

In Q3 2025, the global Citric Acid market showed regionally varied trends. Asia-Pacific experienced overall stability, with prices holding firm due to steady demand and consistent production levels, although some export-dependent countries saw mild softening.

In South Asia, Citric acid prices declined slightly amid subdued domestic consumption and increased import competition. Europe recorded a uniform downward trend across the region, driven by weak industrial demand and high inventory levels despite stable production.

In North America, market sentiment has been subdued with marginal price declines, supported by adequate supply and low spot market activity. Conversely, South America saw upward price movement, primarily due to higher import costs and increased procurement activity.

China

Citric Acid Export Price from FOB Shanghai, Grade: Anhydrous.

According to Price-Watch, in Q3 2025, Citric Acid price in China posted a slight increase of 0.10%, with offers ranging between USD 623–656 per metric ton. The Citric Acid price trend in China remained stable, supported by steady fermentation activity and unfluctuating feedstock Corn availability. Production levels were consistent, with stable shipment activity throughout the quarter.

The number of enquiries from Asian and Latin American markets stayed firm, with no significant export disruption. However, in September 2025, Citric acid prices in China decreased by 0.59%, reflecting minor market adjustments at quarter-end. FOB offers held within a tight range, as suppliers resisted downward revisions amid balanced supply demand conditions and mild overseas interest.

India

Citric Acid Domestic Price from Ex-Mumbai, Grade: Anhydrous.

According to Price-Watch, in Q3 2025, Citric Acid price in India declined by 0.75%, with trading levels recorded between USD 849–936 per metric ton during the quarter. The Citric Acid price trend in India weakened slightly as domestic demand from pharmaceutical and food processing sectors remained muted.

Increased availability of imported material from China added downward pressure on spot prices. The number of enquiries remained low, and most buyers relied on long-term contracts rather than fresh purchases.

In September 2025, Citric acid prices in India decreased sharply by 5.28%, reflecting heightened pressure from cheaper imports and continued weak domestic demand. Despite stable input costs for Corn and consistent output levels, market sentiment remained soft, with limited upward pricing flexibility across the quarter.

Argentina

Citric Acid Import Price from CIF Buenos Aires (China), Grade: Anhydrous.

In Q3 2025, Citric Acid price in Argentina rose by 8.31%, with prices ranging between USD 770–841 per metric ton. The Citric Acid price trend in Argentina has been firmly upward, as buyers faced higher Offered Price due to shipping constraints and origin-country price adjustments.

The number of enquiries increased steadily as importers sought to secure supplies amid tighter global availability. However, in September 2025, Citric acid prices in Argentina decreased by 6.49%, suggesting some easing of pressure from earlier supply constraints.

Longer lead times were reported on shipments, prompting cautious forward booking. Despite moderate seasonal demand, rising logistics costs and steady upstream pricing contributed to firm market sentiment throughout the quarter.

Mexico

Citric Acid Import Price from CIF Manzanillo (China), Grade: Anhydrous.

In Q3 2025, Citric Acid price in Mexico declined by 2.44%, with observed prices between USD 721–744 per metric ton. The Citric Acid price trend in Mexico reflected weakening downstream consumption and reduced restocking activity.

The number of enquiries remained limited as buyers showed caution amid high inventory levels and soft demand from the food and beverage sector. However, in September 2025, Citric acid prices in Mexico increased by 1.45%, indicating a modest rebound possibly triggered by reduced supply pressure or a slight pick-up in end-user demand.

Offers from Asian exporters were adjusted downward, reflecting subdued market activity. The market remained adequately supplied, and buyers delayed fresh purchases in anticipation of further price softening in upcoming months.

Japan

Citric Acid Import Price from CIF Tokyo (China), Grade: Anhydrous.

In Q3 2025, Citric Acid price in Japan have increased by 7.63%, with offers ranging between USD 741–774 per metric ton. The Citric Acid price trend in Japan remained firm, supported by strong demand from the pharmaceutical and packaged food industries.

A steady number of inquiries have been reported throughout the quarter, with buyers prioritizing delivery reliability. However, in September 2025, Citric acid prices in Japan decreased by 0.50%, indicating a minor correction amid firm fundamentals.

Supply remained relatively stable, but rising freight rates led to higher land costs. Spot transactions remained active, and imports from Asia continued to dominate the Japanese market under stable supply chain conditions.

Netherlands

Citric Acid Import Price from CIF Rotterdam (China), Grade: Anhydrous.

In Q3 2025, Citric Acid price in the Netherlands edged down by 0.32%, with pricing reported between USD 680–755 per metric ton. The Citric Acid price trend in the Netherlands remained largely stable, with cautious procurement observed among food and beverage processors.

Inventory levels were sufficient across distribution networks, limiting the urgency for spot purchases. In September 2025, Citric acid prices in the Netherlands decreased by 6.10%, reflecting growing supply pressure and cautious buyer sentiment amid well-stocked inventories and subdued demand.

The number of inquiries remained moderate, with sellers offering minor discounts remaining competitive. Regional market sentiment has been neutral as buyers closely monitored price movements without making aggressive forward bookings.

Belgium

Citric Acid Domestic Price from FD Antwerp, Grade: Monohydrate.

In Q3 2025, Citric Acid price in Belgium fell by 2.78%, with prices quoted in the range of USD 1310–1390 per metric ton. The Citric Acid price trend in Belgium weakened as local demand from food and industrial segments remained subdued. Spot market activity was minimal, and buyers showed limited interest outside of contract-based transactions.

In September 2025, Citric acid prices in Belgium decreased by 0.75%, continuing the soft trend amid competitive import pressures. Pricing faced pressure from low-cost CIF cargoes entering European ports, narrowing supplier margins. Enquiries remained modest, and overall trade volumes were steady, with little fluctuation reported across domestic supply channels.

Thailand

Citric Acid Export Price from FOB Laem Chabang, Grade: Anhydrous.

In the third quarter of 2025, Thailand’s Citric Acid prices saw a slight dip of 0.53%, with prices being offered in the range of USD 1215-1280 per MT. The price trend for Citric Acid in Thailand continued to be soft, as overseas demand had decreased particularly in North America and East Asia, leading buyers to remain cautious in their purchasing decisions.

While the number of inquiries has been slightly reduced, export volumes have been stable but continued to be below the level seen in preceding quarters. In September 2025, Citric Acid prices in Thailand have been down by 2.0%, as continued weak external demand and increased competition from producers in the region put pressure on prices.

United States

Citric Acid Import Price from CIF Houston (Thailand), Grade: Anhydrous.

In Q3 2025, Citric Acid price in the United States declined by 0.58%, with prices ranging between USD 1375–1480 per metric ton. The Citric Acid price trend in the United States weakened slightly amid moderate demand from end-use sectors.

Import volumes from Southeast Asia remained consistent, with no major logistical delays reported. In September 2025, Citric acid prices in the United States decreased by 5.14%, reflecting cautious buying sentiment amid ample inventories and stable import supply.

The number of enquiries was moderating as most buyers fulfilled needs via long-term agreements. Spot activity has been limited, and market participants showed little urgency to engage in new deals amid sufficient stock levels and ongoing negotiations for Q4 contracts.

Citric Acid Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2025

In Q2 2025, Citric Acid prices FOB Shanghai showed a positive upward trend for both Monohydrate and Anhydrous forms. Citric Acid Monohydrate prices rose to approximately USD 637.67 per metric ton, a +6.04% increase from USD 601.33 in Q1, driven by recovering demand from the food and beverage sector, where it is widely used as a preservative and flavour enhancer.

Supply-side constraints, including tighter raw material availability and logistical challenges, also supported the price rise. Similarly, Citric Acid Anhydrous prices increased to about USD 710.33 per metric ton, up +3.76% from USD 684.58 in Q1, supported by steady demand from pharmaceutical and industrial users who rely on it for various formulations and processes.

Improved supply chain efficiencies further stabilized availability. Overall, Q2 2025 reflected healthier demand and tighter supply conditions for both grades, resulting in sustained price momentum in the citric acid market.

In Q2 2025, Ex-Mumbai prices of Citric Acid Anhydrous rose to approximately USD 934.60 per metric ton, reflecting a +1.46% increase from USD 917 per metric ton in Q1 2025. This gradual price uptick was driven by steady demand from key sectors such as pharmaceuticals, food processing, and beverages, which continue to rely heavily on citric acid as a key ingredient.

Improved supply chain logistics and consistent availability of raw materials contributed to a balanced market environment. Additionally, the slight recovery in domestic industrial activity supported sustained purchasing interest from manufacturers and exporters. Despite minor fluctuations in global raw material costs, the overall market remained stable, allowing prices to maintain a positive trajectory.

The steady demand combined with efficient supply dynamics helped the Citric Acid Anhydrous market in Ex-Mumbai to show healthy growth in Q2 2025, signalling optimism for the coming quarters.

In Q1 2025, the Citric Acid Monohydrate market in China (FOB Shanghai) saw a 4.8% decline, with prices falling to USD 601/MT driven by the Lunar New Year slowdown, leading to reduced industrial activity and temporary production halts. Additionally, declining raw material costs added downward pressure on prices.

Belgium’s market stabilized, as supply and demand dynamics balanced out, and key industries resumed procurement following the holiday period. The market outlook remained cautious, with steady but moderate demand from the food and beverage sector keeping price fluctuations in check.

In Q1 2025, Indian (Ex-Mumbai) prices of Citric Acid Anhydrous fell slightly to USD 917/MT, down from a fall of 0.1%. The slight fall was mainly due to subdued industrial activity around the Lunar New Year period in key export markets, thereby leading to softer overseas demand. Combined with this, softening raw material prices and cautious buying habits by domestic consumers kept the market sentiment low, with little price movement observed during this quarter.

Citric Acid Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

In Q4 2024, China’s Citric Acid Monohydrate prices (FOB Shanghai) saw a slight recovery, reaching USD 631/MT, rising by 1.1%, supported by improved seasonal demand in the food and beverage industry. However, overall market activity remained moderate due to continued year end inventory adjustments and cautious procurement strategies.

Belgium’s market followed a similar trend, as manufacturers focused on inventory liquidation before the year-end. The combination of lower international oil prices and reduced freight costs contributed to this bearish outlook.

Q4 2024 saw a consistent price trend for Citric Acid Anhydrous in India (Ex-Mumbai) with prices holding steady at USD 918/MT. The market was in balance as regular demand from the food and beverage sector continued, although year-end stock clearance and cautious buying by consumers kept prices from rising.

Dipping international crude oil prices and reduced freight charges also helped to bring about this consistent market trend, allowing manufacturers to provide steady supply without sharp pricing.

In Q3 2024, the Citric Acid Monohydrate market in China (FOB Shanghai) experienced a bearish trend, with prices declining to USD 625/MT by 4.5% due to weaker international oil prices and reduced transportation costs. The food and beverage industry maintained stable demand, but the pharmaceutical sector showed cautious purchasing behaviour.

Additionally, improved production efficiency and year-end destocking strategies in major markets contributed to the price decline. In Belgium, the market remained stable, supported by steady demand from key industries, although softer raw material costs prevented any significant price surges.

In Q3 2024, the Citric Acid Anhydrous market in India (Ex-Mumbai) saw a slight fall in prices, to USD 918/MT, 0.6% lower compared to the previous quarter. This decline was mainly triggered by over-supply in the domestic market as production was ramped up in the first half of the year by the manufacturers. While the food and beverages industry-maintained level demand, pharma buyers tapered off purchases, promoting more cautious market sentiment.

In Q2 2024, the Citric Acid Monohydrate market saw a modest recovery, with prices in China (FOB Shanghai) rising to USD 654/MT, showing a 1.6% stabilized trend from Q1. This uptick was largely due to higher demand from the food and beverage industry, where Citric Acid is used as a preservative and flavour enhancer.

The pharmaceutical sector also contributed to the demand increase as Citric Acid continues to be a key component in medicines. In addition, tighter global supplies and logistics disruptions caused by freight challenges played a role in supporting price stability, particularly in major export hubs like Thailand.

In Q2 2024, prices for Citric Acid Anhydrous in India (Ex-Mumbai) surged to USD 924/MT, an increase of 5% compared to the previous quarter. The price rise was dominated by increased seasonally strong demand from the beverage and food sector, especially from summer beverages.

Increased logistics rates and improved export demand also had a positive bearing on prices. Production was healthy, with local producers responding positively to increased order volumes locally and from neighboring countries.

In Q1 2024, the global Citric Acid Monohydrate market experienced a sharp decrease in prices, particularly in China (FOB Shanghai), where prices were reported at USD 644/MT, reflecting a 7.3% drop from the previous quarter.

This decrease trend was primarily driven by lower raw material costs and a temporary dip in demand after the end of the festive season in late 2023. However, strong demand in sectors like food and beverages, along with an increase in production capacity, helped maintain market stability.

In Q1 2024, the Citric Acid Anhydrous price in India (Ex-Mumbai) registered a small price increase, up to about USD 880/MT, representing a 1.1% increase over the previous quarter. This price hike was supported by strong demand from the food and beverages sector following the festive season and tight inventory levels during the initial months of the year.

Raw material prices remained at moderate levels, and suppliers-maintained supplies in balance, having the effect of supporting market prices during this period.

Technical Specifications of Citric Acid Price Trends

Product Description:

Citric Acid is a colourless weak organic acid which occurs naturally in citrus fruits. It is used widely in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and cleaning products due to its antioxidant properties and ability to act as a natural preservative, pH regulator, and chelating agent.

Identifiers and Classification:

  • CAS No – 77-92-9 (Anhydrous), 5949-29-1 (Monohydrate)
  • HS Code – 29181400
  • Molecular Formula – C6H8O7 (Anhydrous), C6H8O7.H2O (Monohydrate)
  • Molecular Weight [g/mol] – 192.12


Citric Acid Synonyms:

  • Citric Acid
  • E330


Citric Acid Grades Specific Price Assessment:

  • Citric acid Anhydrous
  • Citric acid Monohydrate


Citric Acid Global Trade and Shipment Terms

  • Quotation Terms (Product & Country Specific): 25-28 MT
  • Packaging Type (Product & Country Specific): 35 Kg Bag


Incoterms Referenced in Citric Acid Price Reporting

Shipping Term  Location  Definition 
FOB Shanghai  Shanghai, China  Citric Acid Export Price from China 
CIF Nhava Sheva (China)  Nhava sheva, India  Citric Acid Import Price in India from China  
Ex-Mumbai  Mumbai, India  Domestically Traded Citric Acid price in Mumbai 
CIF Buenos Aires (China)  Buenos Aires, Argentina  Citric Acid Import Price in Argentina from China  
CIF Manzanillo (China)  Manzanillo, Mexico  Citric Acid Import Price in Mexico from China  
CIF Tokyo (China)  Tokyo, Japan  Citric Acid Import Price in Japan from China  
CIF Rotterdam (China)  Rotterdam, Netherlands  Citric Acid Import Price in Netherlands from China  
FD Antwerp  Antwerp, Belgium  Delivered Citric Acid Price from Belgium 
FD Milano  Milano, Italy  Delivered Citric Acid Price from Italy 
FD Hamburg  Hamburg, Germany  Delivered Citric Acid Price from Germany 
FOB Laem Chabang  Laem Chabang, Thailand  Citric Acid Export Price from Thailand 
CIF Houston (Thailand)  Houston, USA  Citric Acid Import Price in Netherlands from China  

*Quotation Terms refers to the quantity range specified for the Citric Acid being quoted or offered in a commercial transaction.

**Packaging Type refers to standard packaging size commonly used for Citric Acid packing, ease of handling, transportation, and storage in industrial and commercial applications.


Key Citric Acid Manufacturers:

Manufacturers 
Weifang Ensign Industry Co., Ltd. 
RZBC Group Co., Ltd. 
TTCA Co., Ltd. 
Citrique Belge (Citribel) 
Jungbunzlauer Suisse AG 
Sunshine Biotech International 

Citric Acid Industrial Applications

Citric Acid Market Share end use

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Citric Acid prices

  • Global Logistics and Shipping Crisis (2021-Present): The pandemic-induced surge in e-commerce, combined with widespread shipping delays, container shortages, and port closures, significantly affected the transportation of Citric Acid. The global shipping crisis made it difficult for manufacturers to move raw materials and finished Citric Acid products, leading to delays and increased costs. This logistics bottleneck further stressed the supply chain, causing price hikes for Citric Acid as manufacturers faced rising transport costs.
  • Global Energy Crisis (2021-2023): The surge in natural gas and crude oil prices impacted industries worldwide, including the Citric Acid market. Citric Acid production is energy-intensive, and rising energy costs made it more expensive for manufacturers to operate. This led to higher production costs, reduced output, and price spikes, particularly in energy-dependent regions like Europe and Asia, where manufacturers struggled to absorb the rising costs of raw materials and production inputs.
  • COVID-19 Pandemic (2020-2022): The pandemic disrupted global supply chains and manufacturing operations. Citric Acid producers faced factory shutdowns, labour shortages, and logistical challenges as transportation routes were heavily impacted. This caused production slowdowns, especially in key producing countries like China and Europe. At the same time, demand surged for Citric Acid due to its extensive use in food preservatives and cleaning products, leading to supply-demand imbalances and price volatility in the market.

These factors highlight the Citric Acid market’s sensitivity to global disruptions and energy price fluctuations, which have caused significant price volatility over the years.

Why PriceWatch?

PriceWatch is your trusted resource for tracking global citric acid price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the citric acid market. By monitoring critical events such as geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and economic shifts, PriceWatch keeps you fully informed of market dynamics.

In addition, PriceWatch provides detailed forecasts and updates on production capacities, enabling you to anticipate market changes and make well-informed decisions. With PriceWatch, you gain a competitive edge in understanding all the elements that influence citric acid prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with PriceWatch’s reliable, accurate, and timely citric acid market data.

Track PriceWatch's citric acid price assessment on a weekly basis since 2015 onwards, along with short-term forecasts, and get access to the detailed report in a downloadable format.

Data Collection and Sources​

  • Real-Time Market Data: PriceWatch aggregates real-time pricing data from a diverse range of sources, including global commodity exchanges, industry reports, and proprietary databases. This ensures that our assessments reflect the most current market conditions.
  • On-the-Ground Intelligence: Our team gathers insights directly from key market participants, including producers, suppliers, traders, and end-users, across major Citric Acid production hubs. This ground-level intelligence is crucial for understanding localized market dynamics.
  • Supply Chain Monitoring: We track the entire Citric Acid supply chain, from raw material availability (e.g., Starch, Molasses, etc.) to production and distribution channels. This includes monitoring feedstock prices, production capacities, and transportation logistics.

Event Tracking and Impact Analysis​

  • Geopolitical Tensions: PriceWatch continuously monitors global geopolitical developments, such as conflicts or trade disputes, which can significantly impact Citric Acid prices. Our analysis includes potential disruptions to supply chains and their immediate and long-term effects on pricing.
  • Natural Disasters and Climate Events: We assess the impact of natural disasters, such as hurricanes or winter storms, on Citric Acid production facilities, particularly in vulnerable regions like the U.S. Gulf Coast. These events are factored into our price forecasts and supply outlooks.
  • Economic Shifts: PriceWatch evaluates macroeconomic trends, including global economic growth, inflation rates, and sector-specific demand (e.g., food and beverage industry, pharmaceutical, and agriculture industries), to predict shifts in Citric Acid demand and corresponding price movements.

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

  • Current Production Monitoring: We maintain a comprehensive database of global Citric Acid production facilities, tracking their operational status, maintenance schedules, and output levels. This allows us to assess current supply availability accurately.
  • Future Capacity Projections: Our research includes detailed forecasts of upcoming Citric Acid production capacities, factoring in new plant constructions, expansions, and technological advancements. This helps in predicting future supply trends and potential price stabilization.

Demand Forecasting

  • Sectoral Demand Analysis: PriceWatch provides in-depth analysis of demand trends across key sectors, including food and beverage industry, pharmaceutical, and agriculture industries. We track year-on-year demand growth and project future consumption patterns based on economic indicators and industry developments.
  • Global Demand Dynamics: Our methodology considers regional demand variations and how they influence global Citric Acid pricing. This includes understanding the impact of shifts in manufacturing bases, trade policies, and environmental regulations.

Pricing Model Development

  • Dynamic Pricing Models: PriceWatch utilizes advanced econometric models to forecast Citric Acid prices, incorporating real-time data, historical trends, and projected market conditions. Our models are continuously refined to enhance accuracy and predictive power.
  • Scenario Analysis: We conduct scenario-based assessments to evaluate potential future market conditions. This includes best-case, worst-case, and most likely scenarios, helping our clients prepare for a range of market outcomes.

Reporting and Client Support

  • Comprehensive Reports: Our clients receive detailed reports that include current price assessments, future price forecasts, and in-depth analysis of market drivers. These reports are designed to be actionable, providing clear insights and recommendations.
  • Ongoing Support: PriceWatch offers continuous updates and personalized support to our clients, ensuring they have the most up-to-date information to make informed decisions. Our experts are available to discuss specific market developments and provide tailored advice.

This research methodology ensures that PriceWatch delivers the most accurate, timely, and actionable Citric Acid pricing assessments, helping our clients stay ahead of market trends and make informed business decisions.

Citric Acid Market Price Trend provided by PriceWatch is a base price and excludes VAT/Taxes, discounts, or offers. The information herein is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of the date indicated and is provided solely for the convenience of our customers as a reference for citric acid. PriceWatch disclaims any warranties or representations regarding the accuracy of results derived from this information. It is the sole responsibility of the user to assess the suitability of the product for their specific application. This document does not constitute an endorsement to use the product in violation of any applicable patent rights.

Citric Acid prices are influenced by several factors, including the cost of raw materials like corn or sugar used in fermentation processes, fluctuations in energy and transportation costs, and supply-demand dynamics. Environmental regulations, particularly those affecting the chemical production industry, also play a role in driving up operational costs. Additionally, market trends such as demand from the food and beverage industry, pharmaceuticals, and cleaning products can create price volatility. Monitoring these key drivers is essential for procurement heads aiming to optimize Citric Acid sourcing.

The availability and price of raw materials, particularly corn or sugar, significantly impact Citric Acid prices. Any disruptions in corn or sugar production, such as poor harvests or trade restrictions, can lead to a shortage in supply, driving up Citric Acid prices. Conversely, when these raw materials are abundant, prices may stabilize or slightly decrease. For procurement professionals, it is critical to monitor agricultural trends and secure contracts with reliable suppliers to mitigate risks associated with raw material fluctuations.

Yes, Citric Acid prices can vary by region due to differences in production capacity, raw material availability, and transportation costs. For example, China is a major producer of Citric Acid, often leading to lower prices compared to regions with lower production volumes, such as Europe or North America. Procurement heads should consider these regional variations when developing their sourcing strategies, looking for opportunities to source from cost-competitive regions while factoring in the total cost of logistics and tariffs.

Access Real-Time Citric Acid Price Trends
Access Real-Time Citric Acid Price Trends