Lactic Acid Prices

Lactic Acid Price Trend, Index and Forecast

Track the latest insights on lactic acid price trend and forecast with detailed analysis of regional fluctuations and market dynamics across North America, Latin America, Central Europe, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Middle East, North Africa, West Africa, Central and Southern Africa, Central Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, East Asia, and Oceania.

Lactic Acid Prices Outlook Q1 2025

• Canada: US$ 2410/MT
• Thailand: US$ 2190/MT
• France: US$ 2310/MT
• Turkey: US$ 2230/MT
• Brazil: US$ 1880/MT

Lactic Acid Price Chart

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During the first quarter of 2025, the lactic acid prices in Canada reached 2410 USD/MT in March. In Q1 2025, Canadian lactic acid prices followed North American trends. A sharp spike in January was triggered by front-loaded buying amid looming tariffs on Chinese imports, paired with elevated energy costs and port congestion on the Pacific coast. An increasing import tariff enacted in February sustained buying momentum. However, in March, weak industrial demand and high inventories caused prices to soften significantly. Currency fluctuations and logistics pressures persisted but buyers held off, creating a buyer’s market.

During the first quarter of 2025, lactic acid prices in Thailand reached 2190 USD/MT in March. During this period, prices in Thailand showed consistent upward momentum. Strong demand from the food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical sectors (supported by increased domestic manufacturing output) drove buying. Rising energy, feedstock (potato starch), and food costs exerted upward pressures that were passed to customers. A weaker baht boosted export competitiveness, further tightening domestic supply. Persistent low inventory levels and longer delivery times reinforced the upward trend in all three months.

During the first quarter of 2025, the lactic acid prices in France reached 2310 USD/MT in March. French lactic acid prices mirrored broader European factors. Rising demand from the food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries after holiday inventory refills pushed prices up in January. Supply chain disruptions (port congestion and labor disputes) continued in February, keeping upward pressure. March saw some price easing as restocking tapered off, though still supported by energy and raw material cost increases tied to regional agriculture policy constraints (notably reduced maize yields due to fertilizer restrictions).

During the first quarter of 2025, the lactic acid prices in Turkey reached 2230 USD/MT in March. In Turkey, Q1 2025 prices were shaped by import and regional trade dynamics. European price rises increased import costs from the EU. A weak Turkish lira raised dollar-priced feedstock expenses. Domestic industrial demand, especially from the food processing and cosmetic sectors, remained robust. Supply chain constraints (longer shipment times and currency volatility) intensified cost pressures. However, elevated inventory levels from early-quarter restocking prevented even sharper price rises.

During the first quarter of 2025, the lactic acid prices in Brazil reached 1880 USD/MT in March. Over this period, Brazilian lactic acid prices leaned on agricultural policy impacts. The RenovaBio ethanol program diverted over half of sugarcane output toward fuel; feedstock reallocation pushed manufacturers to alternative starches like cassava. Weak industrial demand early in the quarter and oversupply from biofuel overlap pressured prices. By March, limited domestic feedstock availability, persistent processing activity, and logistical constraints exerted stabilizing upward pressure.

Lactic Acid Prices Outlook Q2 2024

• United States: US$ 1440/MT
• China: US$ 1150/MT
• Netherlands: US$ 1370/MT

The lactic acid prices in the United States for Q2 2024 reached 1440 USD/MT in June. The market displayed varied movements, influenced by domestic requirements and broader economic trends. Early in the quarter, strong consumer spending lifted prices. However, the mid-quarter brought a downturn as demand moderated alongside new orders, and purchasing power was affected by rising interest rates. Prices increased again toward June’s end owing to increased imports and inventory preparation for peak season, closing the quarter on an upward trend.

The price trend for lactic acid in China for Q2 2024 settled at 1150 USD/MT in June. The market exhibited a fluctuating pattern, with initial price increases driven by strong manufacturing demand. However, as consumer spending declined and economic pressures mounted, prices faced a downturn. Later in the quarter, demand rebounded in sectors like food and healthcare, stabilizing and lifting prices slightly. This combination of factors resulted in a mixed pricing landscape by the quarter's end.

In Netherlands, the lactic acid prices for Q2 2024 reached 1370 USD/MT in June. The market saw notable price increases for Lactic acid, shaped by heightened demand in manufacturing and seasonal trends. Business growth and improved consumer confidence further boosted prices, while ongoing supply chain challenges added pressure. This dynamic created a bullish market environment, with prices rising significantly through the quarter, reflecting robust demand and persistent logistical constraints.

Lactic Acid Prices Outlook Q4 2023

• USA: US$ 1285/MT
• India: US$ 1070/MT
• Netherlands: US$ 1170/MT

The price of lactic acid in the United States for Q4 2023 encountered a downward trend due to several factors. The reduced product demand from downstream industries and heightened supply were major reasons that contributed to the declining prices. Also, the increased interest rates, reduced energy prices, and a drop in inflation boosted the downward flow, stopping at 1285 USD/MT.

The price trend for lactic acid in India indicated a decreasing trend. This is due to subdued product demand in the domestic and international market. Moreover, the reduced level of orders in the manufacturing sector from the US and Europe markets favored the negative flow in prices. Furthermore, an ample supply of lactic acid led to reductions in prices, stopping at 1070 USD/MT.

In the Netherlands, lactic acid prices witnessed a bearish market sentiment. The declining prices were attributed to a drop in new sales and orders. Also, a dip in the manufacturing sector’s operations, lowered energy prices, and reduced inflation rates boosted the decreasing trend, reaching 1170 USD/MT.

Regional Coverage

The report provides a detailed analysis of the market across different regions, each with unique pricing dynamics influenced by localized market conditions, supply chain intricacies, and geopolitical factors. This includes price trends, price forecast and supply and demand trends for each region, along with spot prices by major ports. The report also provides coverage of FOB and CIF prices, as well as the key factors influencing the lactic acid prices.

Global Lactic Acid Price Trend

The report offers a holistic view of the global lactic acid pricing trends in the form of lactic acid price charts, reflecting the worldwide interplay of supply-demand balances, international trade policies, and overarching economic factors that shape the market on a macro level. This comprehensive analysis not only highlights current price levels but also provides insights into historical price of lactic acid, enabling stakeholders to understand past fluctuations and their underlying causes. The report also delves into price forecast models, projecting future price movements based on a variety of indicators such as expected changes in supply chain dynamics, anticipated policy shifts, and emerging market trends. By examining these factors, the report equips industry participants with the necessary tools to make informed strategic decisions, manage risks, and capitalize on market opportunities. Furthermore, it includes a detailed lactic acid demand analysis, breaking down regional variations and identifying key drivers specific to each geographic market, thus offering a nuanced understanding of the global pricing landscape.

Europe Lactic Acid Price Trend

Q1 2025:

As per the lactic acid price index, in Q1 2025, lactic acid prices in Europe followed a mixed pattern. January saw a strong increase due to high demand from key industries, restocking ahead of Asian holiday disruptions, and shipping issues in the Red Sea. February maintained upward pressure with continued port congestion, labor disputes, and higher import costs linked to price hikes in Asia. Despite steady demand and easing inflation, March saw prices decline as earlier stockpiling reduced spot market activity. The quarter was defined by an initial price surge followed by a late-quarter decline driven by lower purchasing momentum.

Q2 2024:

The lactic acid prices across Europe witnessed a significant uptick in Q2 2024 due to robust company activity and high consumer confidence contributed to a notable increase in lactic acid prices throughout the region. Additionally, the nutraceutical and industrial industries are growing owing to increased inventory replenishment in response to consumer demand. Moreover, a favorable prognosis was supported by growing new orders, which kept the eurozone's economic momentum steady. Problems with the supply chain, such as Asian port congestion and international unrest close to the Red Sea, put additional strain on logistics and higher pricing. Supply shortages were exacerbated by even small plant closures, which supported rising pricing patterns. Throughout the quarter, prices in the Netherlands increased due to a combination of industrial expansion and seasonally strong demand. By the end, these elements worked together to create a favorable climate for lactic acid in Europe.

Q4 2023:

The European region experienced a bearish price trend owing to subdued demand and surplus supply. Moreover, the decreased output in the manufacturing sector, coupled with lowered inflation rates and energy prices, contributed to the declining trend. 

This analysis can be extended to include detailed lactic acid price information for a comprehensive list of countries.

North America Lactic Acid Price Trend

Q1 2025:

As per the lactic acid price index, in Q1 2025, lactic acid prices in Europe followed a mixed pattern. January saw a strong increase due to high demand from key industries, restocking ahead of Asian holiday disruptions, and shipping issues in the Red Sea. February maintained upward pressure with continued port congestion, labor disputes, and higher import costs linked to price hikes in Asia. Despite steady demand and easing inflation, March saw prices decline as earlier stockpiling reduced spot market activity. The quarter was defined by an initial price surge followed by a late-quarter decline driven by lower purchasing momentum.

Q2 2024:

Lactic acid prices fluctuated in North America in Q2 2024 due to a variety of market factors. As domestic expenditure continued to grow, the quarter started with increasing prices due to strong consumer demand. Retailers saw a spike in sales, which caused the price of lactic acid to rise. However, by the middle of the quarter, demand cooled, which caused prices to decline. Economic indicators of slowing growth, such as a loss in new instructions and a reduction in backlogs, were mostly responsible for this decline. Price pressure also increased due to the Federal Reserve's increasing interest amount policy, which was intended to stabilize inflation however instead started to reduce customer purchasing power as a result of increased imports and inventory restocking for the busiest shipping season, lactic acid prices recovered by June. These elements combined to cause a price rebound at the quarter's end, underscoring the complex dynamics shaping lactic acid costs in North America.

Q4 2023:

In North America, the lactic acid market witnessed a mixed trajectory in the last quarter of 2023. Initially, the market saw a hike in prices due to heightened demand from downstream industries. However, the prices declined in the middle of the quarter because of weak market sentiments. Moreover, the rates increased again in the last month of the quarter due to inquiries from the food and beverage (F&B) sectors.

Specific lactic acid historical data within the United States and Canada can also be provided.

Middle East and Africa Lactic Acid Price Trend

Q1 2025:

The report explores the lactic acid trends and lactic acid price chart in the Middle East and Africa, considering factors like regional industrial growth, the availability of natural resources, and geopolitical tensions that uniquely influence market prices.

In addition to region-wise data, information on lactic acid prices for countries can also be provided.

Asia Pacific Lactic Acid Price Trend

Q1 2025:

In Q1 2025, lactic acid prices in the Asia Pacific region rose steadily across all three months. January’s increase was driven by strong demand from key sectors and higher input costs, including energy and potato starch. February saw continued momentum as manufacturing activity expanded and a weaker baht boosted export demand. Despite easing inflation, improved consumer spending supported further price hikes. In March, sustained downstream demand and tight domestic inventories kept prices elevated. Ongoing supply chain constraints and extended delivery times limited availability, allowing suppliers to maintain upward pricing. Overall, strong demand and rising production costs defined the quarter’s consistent price growth.

Q2 2024:

In the Asia Pacific region, prices for lactic acid displayed erratic patterns in the second quarter of 2024, impacted by domestic and global market conditions. Early in the quarter, a robust manufacturing industry and growing orders drove price increases due to higher demand. Profiting from this momentum, producers increased output to satisfy local and foreign demand. However, as Chinese demand weakened in the middle of the quarter, prices dropped. Prices were driven down by economic difficulties and declining consumer expenditure. Suppliers reduced inventory as summer drew near in order to make room for fresh supplies, which resulted in a brief glut and more price reductions. Demand increased again toward the end of June, especially in the healthcare, pharmaceutical, and food industries, where a spike in inquiries strengthened price stability. Consequently, international demand, sustained through June, helped bolster Lactic acid prices in the Asia Pacific region by the end of the quarter.

Q4 2023:

The lactic acid pricing in the Asia Pacific region encountered a subdued demand in the fourth quarter of 2023 due to decreased demand from the manufacturing sector, domestically and internationally. Moreover, surplus product supply and low demand from the corn starch industry boosted the falling trend.

This lactic acid price analysis can be expanded to include a comprehensive list of countries within the region.

Latin America Lactic Acid Price Trend

Q1 2025:

In Q1 2025, lactic acid prices in Latin America were influenced by a mix of supply-side constraints and shifting demand dynamics. Brazil’s diversion of sugarcane toward biofuel under RenovaBio tightened raw material availability for lactic acid production, raising costs. Regional manufacturing faced logistical disruptions, including port delays and limited container availability, which affected import volumes. Meanwhile, industrial demand remained moderate, with the food and beverage sector driving consistent procurement. Currency fluctuations against the US dollar increased the cost of imported feedstocks and finished products. Overall, rising production costs and logistical inefficiencies pushed prices higher despite balanced downstream demand.

Q2 2024:

The analysis of lactic acid prices in Latin America provides a detailed overview, reflecting the unique market dynamics in the region influenced by economic policies, industrial growth, and trade frameworks.

This comprehensive review can be extended to include specific countries within the region.

Lactic Acid Price Trend, Market Analysis, and News

IMARC's latest publication, “Lactic Acid Prices, Trend, Chart, Demand, Market Analysis, News, Historical and Forecast Data Report 2025 Edition,” presents a detailed examination of the lactic acid market, providing insights into both global and regional trends that are shaping prices. This report delves into the spot price of lactic acid at major ports and analyzes the composition of prices, including FOB and CIF terms. It also presents detailed lactic acid prices trend analysis by region, covering North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East and Africa. The factors affecting lactic acid pricing, such as the dynamics of supply and demand, geopolitical influences, and sector-specific developments, are thoroughly explored. This comprehensive report helps stakeholders stay informed with the latest market news, regulatory updates, and technological progress, facilitating informed strategic decision-making and forecasting.

Lactic Acid Industry Analysis

The global lactic acid market size reached USD 3.79 Billion in 2024. By 2033​, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 7.70 Billion, at a projected CAGR of 7.79% during 2025-2033.

• The growing interest in sustainable alternatives among industries is boosting lactic acid’s adoption in packaging, plastics, and other materials. The packaging market reached $1.17 trillion in 2023, with a 5.8% year-on-year across 2018-2021. It is expected to grow by 3.9% and reach $1.42 trillion in 2028. In Asia alone, it will increase by 5.3% annually, with China accounting for 25.3% of world packaging demand by 2028. This data has increased the use of lactic acid in these regions. Also, the flexible plastics market for packaging materials will grow by 5.1% across the next five years, with sales increasing from $197.7 billion in 2023 to $253.2 billion in 2028.
• The lactic acid demand is further amplified by its utilization in the cosmetic and personal care industry for its hydrating, exfoliating, and pH-regulating properties. In Europe, the cosmetic and personal care industry was valued at €88 billion at retail sales price in 2022, with Germany accounting for €14.3 billion, France €12.9 billion, Italy €11.5 billion, the U.K. €10.5 billion, and Spain €9.3 billion. This boosted the demand for lactic acid in Europe. It was also assumed that companies in the cosmetics industry spend 5% of their annual turnover on research and development (R&D), with a total expenditure of €2.35 billion, further increasing the use of lactic acid for various formulations. 
• Lactic acid is also becoming increasingly popular in the food and beverage (F&B) industry because of its ability to inhibit harmful bacteria and enhance flavor in processed foods, dairy products, meat, and fish. Rapid urbanization has increased the demand for processed foods as individuals take longer commutes, which consume large amounts of their day and contribute to a hurried lifestyle. According to Our World in Data, Tokyo (Japan) had the world's highest capital city population in 2018, with over 37 million inhabitants. This was followed by Delhi (India) at over 28 million, Mexico City (Mexico) at 21 million, and Cairo (Egypt) at 20 million, all of which contributed to a sense of overpopulation and rivalry for resources, hastening the pace of life even more. According to a Pew Research Center poll, 60% of U.S. people stated they were sometimes too busy to enjoy life, while 12% said they felt this way all or most of the time. These factors have heightened the need for convenient food items to save time, thereby boosting the use of lactic acid in the processed food industry.
• The lactic acid market share is further reinforced by its use in the pharmaceutical industry to produce lactate salts and polylactic acid polymers for biodegradable implants and controlled drug release. In 2022, Europe invested an estimated €44,500 million in research and development (R&D). Also, in the same year, North America accounted for 52.3% of world pharmaceutical sales compared with 22.4% for Europe. According to IQVIA, 64.4% of sales of new medicines launched during the period 2017-2022 were on the U.S. market, compared with 16.4% on the European market. The increased production and sales of pharmaceutical products have bolstered the demand for lactic acid. India is also a major exporter of pharmaceuticals, as it supplies over 50% of Africa’s requirement for generics, 40% of generic demand in the U.S., and 25% of all medicine in the U.K. 

Lactic Acid News

The report covers the latest developments, updates, and trends impacting the global lactic acid industry, providing stakeholders with timely and relevant information. This segment covers a wide array of news items, including the inauguration of new production facilities, advancements in lactic acid production technologies, strategic market expansions by key industry players, and significant mergers and acquisitions that impact the lactic acid price trend.

Latest developments in the lactic acid industry:

• In October 2020, Galactic’s Futerro started the operation of its first integrated polylactic acid (PLA) production unit in China in collaboration with BBCA Biochemical (China). The facility has a production capacity of 30,000 tons/year.
• In December 2023, Corbion announced the mechanical completion of its new circular lactic acid manufacturing plant in Rayong, Thailand, consistent with the timeline previously disclosed.

Product Description

Lactic acid (C3H6O3) is a colorless and water-soluble compound with a distinct sour taste. It plays a pivotal role in various biological processes, particularly in the metabolism during anaerobic respiration. Lactic acid is produced by fermenting carbohydrates in certain bacteria and by muscles during intense activity. It exists in different forms of optical isomers, such as L-lactic acid and D-lactic acid. 

Lactic acid is extensively used across multiple industries, such as food, packaging, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, leather tanning, healthcare, textile, chemical manufacturing, and environmentally friendly solvents. It offers numerous benefits, such as its role in improving food safety and extending shelf life, enhancing flavors, promoting skin moisture retention, and supporting the production of biodegradable materials. Moreover, lactic acid is lauded for its renewable sourcing, biodegradability, effectiveness in lower concentrations, and its status as a generally recognized as safe (GRAS) substance.

Report Coverage

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report presents a detailed analysis of lactic acid pricing, covering global and regional trends, spot prices at key ports, and a breakdown of FOB and CIF prices.
• The study examines factors affecting lactic acid price trend, including input costs, supply-demand shifts, and geopolitical impacts, offering insights for informed decision-making.
• The competitive landscape review equips stakeholders with crucial insights into the latest market news, regulatory changes, and technological advancements, ensuring a well-rounded, strategic overview for forecasting and planning.
• IMARC offers various subscription options, including monthly, quarterly, and biannual updates, allowing clients to stay informed with the latest market trends, ongoing developments, and comprehensive market insights. The lactic acid price charts ensure our clients remain at the forefront of the industry.