Looking ahead to the fourth quarter of 2024 and beyond, there will have been cautious optimism for a recovery in production as logistical issues are resolved and market conditions stabilize. However, the market will have been expected to remain volatile through 2030, influenced by factors such as climate change impacts, regulatory changes, and a growing consumer preference for sustainable and eco-friendly products.
By the third quarter of 2024, prices have remained stable amid ongoing supply constraints and steady demand, particularly from the personal care and biofuel sectors. As of August 2024, average Tall Oil Fatty Acid prices have held around USD 2,590 per metric ton, reflecting stability in the market dynamics despite persistent production challenges.
As we moved into Q2 2024, production challenges persisted due to logistical issues and ongoing disruptions in the supply chain. Nevertheless, demand had remained robust, particularly in the bio-based and renewable sectors, resulting in a reported 4% increase in consumption by May 2024. As production had gradually improved, Tall Oil Fatty Acid prices had begun to stabilize, easing some previous pressures on the market.
The tall oil fatty acid market had primarily been influenced by North America and Europe, with the USA having been a significant producer, alongside Canada and Sweden. In the first quarter of 2024, Tall Oil Fatty Acid prices for tall oil fatty acids had been approximately USD 2,590 per metric ton, driven by strong demand from various industries, including personal care, coatings, and lubricants, despite some supply constraints.
PriceWatch is your trusted resource for tracking global tall oil fatty acid price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the tall oil fatty 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 tall oil fatty acid prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with PriceWatch’s reliable, accurate, and timely tall oil fatty acid market data.
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Natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods, or wildfires can significantly impact production and logistics. For example, when hurricanes hit key production areas, processing facilities may shut down, leading to immediate shortages in the market. In such cases, buyers often scramble to secure limited supplies, resulting in price spikes as competition drives up costs.
Tall oil fatty acids are derived from by-products of the pulping process in the paper industry, primarily sourced from pine trees. Changes in the availability of these feedstocks can have profound effects. If logging restrictions are imposed due to environmental concerns, the supply of raw materials may diminish. This can result in manufacturers facing challenges in maintaining production levels, leading to increased prices as they compete for the available feedstock.
Demand from various sectors, particularly personal care, biofuels, and coatings, plays a crucial role in price dynamics. When these industries expand, they require more tall oil fatty acids for formulations. The growing emphasis on sustainable and bio-based products has further amplified this demand, pushing prices upward as manufacturers seek to secure their supply chains against anticipated shortages.
The overall health of the global economy significantly influences consumption patterns. During periods of economic growth, industries such as automotive and construction tend to flourish, increasing their need for tall oil fatty acids in products. Conversely, during economic downturns, consumption often declines as companies cut back on production, which can lead to lower prices if supply exceeds demand.
Changes in environmental regulations can substantially impact the market. Stricter standards aimed at promoting sustainability may compel industries to transition toward bio-based alternatives like tall oil fatty acids. This shift can lead to increased consumption, especially as companies strive to meet consumer preferences for environmentally friendly products. However, if regulatory changes result in significantly higher production costs, it could deter some users, leading to potential price fluctuations.
This research methodology ensures that Price-Watch delivers the most accurate, timely, and actionable tall oil fatty acid pricing assessments, helping our clients stay ahead of market trends and make informed business decisions.
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Incoterms Used
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PriceWatch Quotation Terms:
Ex-Location: This incoterm refers to a shipping agreement where the seller makes the goods available at their premises, and the buyer is responsible for all transportation costs, including shipping, insurance, and any other fees.
CIF: CIF refers to the Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) terms for goods. Under CIF terms, the seller is responsible for the cost of goods, insurance, and freight charges until the goods reach the port of destination.
FD: FD stands for Free Delivered where the seller takes full responsibility for delivering goods to the location/port. This ensures the buyer receives the goods at the designated port with all necessary costs, except import duties, covered.
FOB: FOB refers to the Free On-Board shipping term, where the seller is responsible for the cost and risk of delivering the goods to the port. Once the goods are on board the vessel, the responsibility shifts to the buyer for all costs, including shipping and insurance.
Properties | Specification |
Iodine Number (cg l/g) | 152 |
Saponification Number (mg KOH/g) | 197 |
Cloud Point (°C) | 2 |
Pour Point (°C) | -14 |
Viscosity at 20 °C (cP) | 25 |
Density at 20 °C (kg/m3) | 905 |
Applications
Tall oil fatty acids (TOFA) are versatile compounds used in personal care products, coatings, adhesives, lubricants, and biofuels. They enhance emulsifying, adhesion, and bonding properties, and are also found in detergents, textiles, and rubber, making them valuable in sustainable formulations across various industries.
The pricing of tall oil fatty acids is influenced by several factors, including raw material availability, production costs, market demand, and global economic conditions. Supply chain disruptions, such as natural disasters or geopolitical events, can lead to price volatility. Additionally, regulatory changes and currency fluctuations also play a significant role in determining costs.
Seasonal variations can impact the supply of tall oil fatty acids, particularly due to changes in logging activities and weather conditions that affect raw material availability. For example, during peak production seasons, prices may stabilize or decrease due to increased supply, whereas off-seasons can lead to shortages and higher prices. Procurement heads should monitor these patterns to make informed purchasing decisions.
Long-term pricing trends for Tall Oil Fatty Acids show a general increase due to rising demand in various sectors, including personal care, biofuels, and coatings. As industries shift towards more sustainable and eco-friendly products, the demand for tall oil fatty acids is expected to grow, potentially leading to upward pressure on prices. Procurement heads should consider these trends when planning budgets and sourcing strategies.
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