Propionic Acid Prices

Propionic Acid Price Trend, Index and Forecast

Track the latest insights on propionic 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.

Propionic Acid Prices Outlook Q2 2025

• Canada: US$ 1044/MT
• Spain: US$ 1410/MT
• China: US$ 865/MT
• USA: US$ 770/MT
• Brazil: US$ 1310/MT

Propionic Acid Price Chart

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During the second quarter of 2025, the propionic acid prices in Canada reached 1044 USD/MT in June. As per the propionic acid price chart, prices tracked the regional trend and softened, reflecting both US market weakness and shared fundamentals across North America. The drop in US values weighed heavily on sentiment, setting a benchmark that Canadian buyers and sellers could not ignore. With crude-linked ethylene costs under pressure and OPEC+ output pushing feedstock lower, the cost base for producers eased, reducing upward price momentum in Canada as well.

During the second quarter of 2025, the propionic acid prices in Spain reached 1410 USD/MT in June. Prices mirrored the overall European softness, with bearish fundamentals guiding much of the movement. The persistent weakness in upstream feedstocks, linked to subdued crude oil values, eroded cost support for local producers. This meant that even though production expenses remained manageable, there was little upward push on pricing. Supply in Spain was steady, with domestic production running without major disruptions. Inventories had built up earlier in the period, and with export opportunities limited, the local market became flush with available material. This surplus placed consistent pressure on sellers, who were forced to adjust offers downward to encourage the movement of stocks.

During the second quarter of 2025, propionic acid prices in China reached 865 USD/MT in June. In China, prices moved consistently lower, weighed down by structural oversupply and muted cost support from upstream markets. The weakness in crude oil and its derivatives filtered into ethylene, the primary feedstock, reducing production costs and eroding any price floor that might have otherwise stabilized the market. This created an environment where sellers struggled to justify higher offers, even when demand pockets briefly emerged. Domestic producers continued to run plants at steady rates, which added to already sufficient inventories. Stockpiling ahead of holiday periods only deepened the imbalance between supply and demand, leaving buyers in a position of advantage. The absence of strong export flows further intensified the domestic glut, as international appetite remained lackluster.

During the second quarter of 2025, the propionic acid prices in the USA reached 770 USD/MT in June. Prices were weighed down by a persistent imbalance between supply and demand. Ample domestic production and steady operating rates kept availability high, while logistical conditions posed no major constraints. This created a comfortable supply situation, which, when coupled with weak overseas inquiries, left inventories building up through the middle of the quarter. The oversupply placed consistent downward pressure on market sentiment. On the demand side, seasonal stability in food preservation and agrochemical applications was evident, but consumption growth in these segments was not strong enough to absorb the excess material in circulation.

During the second quarter of 2025, the propionic acid prices in Brazil reached 1310 USD/MT in June. Demand from end-use sectors remained steady but unremarkable. The food preservation industry, an important consumer in Brazil, provided a reliable baseline, while agrochemicals maintained seasonal pull in line with the country’s strong agricultural sector. Still, this consumption was insufficient to absorb the weight of material in circulation. Buyers, sensing further downside risk, generally pursued cautious, short-term purchasing strategies, reducing forward commitments and keeping volumes limited.

Propionic Acid Prices Outlook Q1 2025

• Canada: US$ 1080/MT
• Spain: US$ 1380/MT
• Indonesia: US$ 1527/MT
• Australia: US$ 1350/MT
• Brazil: US$ 1330/MT

During the first quarter of 2025, the propionic acid prices in Canada reached 1080 USD/MT in March. In Q1 2025, propionic acid prices in Canada remained stable to slightly firm, influenced by steady demand from animal feed and food preservation sectors. Supply chains were generally stable, but winter-related logistical disruptions in key provinces occasionally delayed shipments. Import dependency introduced mild pricing volatility, driven by fluctuating global freight rates and upstream acetic acid costs. Procurement remained measured, with buyers focusing on reliability and cost control.

During the first quarter of 2025, propionic acid prices in Spain reached 1380 USD/MT in March. In this period, Spain’s propionic acid market saw modest price increases due to firm demand from food processing and agriculture-related applications. Domestic production operated at stable rates, but energy and compliance costs exerted upward pressure on margins. Imports from Central Europe helped balance short-term demand, though freight costs and lead times limited aggressive stocking. Buyers adopted cautious procurement to manage price sensitivity amid persistent input cost inflation.

During the first quarter of 2025, the propionic acid prices in Indonesia reached 1527 USD/MT in March. Propionic acid prices in Indonesia were largely stable, supported by moderate demand from the food preservation and agricultural sectors. Domestic consumption remained steady, but limited local production increased reliance on imports, exposing the market to global freight and feedstock price fluctuations. Currency volatility and port congestion contributed to sporadic cost pressure. Market activity was subdued, with traders maintaining conservative inventory strategies to navigate uncertain external supply conditions.

During the first quarter of 2025, the propionic acid prices in Australia reached 1350 USD/MT in March. In Australia, propionic acid pricing trended upward in Q1 2025 due to high import dependency and elevated logistics costs. Demand from the food preservation and livestock feed sectors remained consistent, but limited regional production and extended shipping timelines from key Asian suppliers tightened availability. Currency movements and feedstock-related cost increases also played a role. Procurement remained conservative, focused on maintaining essential stock levels without overcommitting.

During the first quarter of 2025, the propionic acid prices in Brazil reached 1330 USD/MT in March. Brazil’s propionic acid market experienced mild price growth, driven by solid demand from the feed and food sectors and constrained import availability. Limited domestic output forced reliance on international suppliers, exposing prices to freight rate increases and upstream raw material costs. Supply chain inefficiencies and port congestion also impacted timelines. Buyers adopted a cautious purchasing strategy, ensuring adequate stock while managing cost uncertainties tied to external market factors.

Propionic Acid Prices Outlook Q3 2024

• United States: US$ 765/MT
• China: US$ 870/MT

The propionic acid prices in the United States for Q3 2024 reached 765 USD/MT in September. The region saw steady growth due to rising product utilization in packaging and food preservation sectors amid limited supply. Apart from this, supply constraints, combined with higher feedstock and energy prices, pushed up production costs. This drove a significant price increase, showcasing a persistent upward trend throughout the quarter.

The price trend for propionic acid in China for Q3 2024 settled at 870 USD/MT in September. The market faced notable price fluctuations driven by strong seasonal demand and supply chain constraints. Moreover, limited availability led to peak price levels and underscored the influence of external market pressures. This period marked a consistent price rise, reflecting the vigorous nature of the industry landscape and evolving market needs.

Propionic Acid Prices Outlook Q2 2024

• United States: US$ 675/MT
• China: US$ 765/MT

The propionic acid prices in the United States for Q2 2024 reached 675 USD/MT in June. The region saw prices drop notably due to reduced demand and excess inventory. Additionally, market trends highlighted a significant year-over-year decline, signaling oversupply and ongoing economic challenges. Besides this, prices remained unchanged in comparison to Q1, showcasing a static industry without indications of recovery, as weak demand continued to weigh on sentiment.

The price trend for propionic acid in China for Q2 2024 settled at 765 USD/MT in June. The market faced notable increases driven by robust global and local demand, owing to the higher food preservative needs during summer. Moreover, seasonal freight surges, along with geopolitical factors, strained logistical channels, pushing prices upward. As a result, the market landscape remained bullish, with heightened recovery noted compared to earlier quarters despite previous year-over-year declines.

Propionic Acid Prices Outlook Q2 2023

• USA: US$ 1245/MT 

In June 2023, the market price for propionic acid in the United States was 1245 USD/MT. The market faced several price fluctuations as it entered the first quarter of 2024. During January and February, the rates saw a hike due to increased demand from downstream industries like food, and the elevated prices of feedstock ethylene. Moreover, there was a scarcity of the product as many plants were shut down during that time. However, towards the end of March, the market saw a dip in rates owing to increased supply and low-cost support from feedstock ethylene.

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 propionic acid prices.

Global Propionic Acid Price Trend

The report offers a holistic view of the global propionic acid pricing trends in the form of propionic 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 propionic 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 propionic 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 Propionic Acid Price Trend

Q2 2025:

In Europe, prices eased as bearish fundamentals shaped the market from start to finish. The softness in upstream feedstocks weighed heavily on overall sentiment. With crude oil values under continued pressure, production costs lacked any meaningful support, which encouraged sellers to trim offers rather than attempt to defend higher levels. Domestic output remained reliable, and there were no notable disruptions to supply. Inventories built up early in the period, and with export channels offering limited relief, material accumulated within the region. This created an environment of ready availability, leaving buyers with little urgency to secure large volumes. Consumption trends were steady but not forceful enough to absorb the excess supply. Food preservation and herbicide applications performed in line with seasonal expectations, but these uses did not generate sufficient pull to rebalance the market. As stockpiles grew, sellers increasingly faced pressure to adjust pricing downward to maintain movement.

Q1 2025:

As per the propionic acid price index, in Q1 2025, the European propionic acid market experienced a steady upward price trend driven by tight supply, high energy costs, and seasonal demand recovery. January saw minor softening due to cautious procurement and slow activity in food and feed sectors. Prices began rising in February, supported by firm feedstock costs and regional shortages. Major producers raised prices citing elevated input and logistics expenses. By March, increased herbicide demand, especially in Southern and Eastern Europe, and low inventory levels sustained bullish market sentiment despite slight easing in feedstock costs. Overall, tight supply and seasonal recovery maintained upward pressure on prices.

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

North America Propionic Acid Price Trend

Q2 2025:

As per the propionic acid price index, prices reflected a sustained downward trend, with the US market showing the sharpest weakness. The fall was primarily a result of softer feedstock costs, as ethylene values declined in tandem with easing crude oil benchmarks. Ample oil supply from global producers and swelling US stockpiles kept upstream pressure minimal, setting the tone for weaker downstream chemical pricing. Supplies were steady throughout the quarter, with domestic production running without major disruptions and distribution channels functioning smoothly. Consumption patterns from food preservation and agrochemicals, the core end-use markets, followed their usual seasonal trajectory but did little to counteract the oversupply. Buyers across the region leaned toward short-term purchasing strategies, avoiding large commitments in a climate where further price erosion seemed likely. This cautious behavior deepened the pressure on sellers, particularly in May when inventories peaked and overseas inquiries slowed, pushing prices to their lowest point.

Q1 2025:

As per the propionic acid price index, the North American propionic acid market saw a steady price rebound following early softness. January prices dipped slightly due to ample inventory and subdued demand. However, February brought a sharp reversal as Gulf Coast winter storms disrupted supply chains, tightening availability. Producers announced price increases amid rising input and logistics costs. By March, strong agricultural demand ahead of planting season, lower stock levels, and improved manufacturing activity sustained upward price pressure. Despite a slight softening in ethylene costs, overall market sentiment remained firm, supported by seasonal demand and constrained supply across the region.

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

Middle East and Africa Propionic Acid Price Trend

Q1 2025:

The report explores the propionic acid trends and propionic 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 propionic acid prices for countries can also be provided.

Asia Pacific Propionic Acid Price Trend

Q2 2025:

Prices moved lower, with China setting the tone for the broader region. The steady decline reflected both upstream and downstream pressures that weighed on sentiment and left producers with little room to push prices higher. Feedstock weakness was central to the trend. Ethylene costs, tied closely to crude oil markets, remained soft as global oil balances were loosened by increased supply from key producers and elevated stockpiles in the United States. This kept production margins under pressure and ensured that sellers could not leverage cost support to maintain stronger price levels. On the supply side, domestic producers in China maintained stable plant operations, resulting in ample product availability. Inventories accumulated as plants built stock ahead of holiday periods, reinforcing the sense of oversupply. With no major disruptions to production, the regional market remained long, limiting any upward price momentum. Demand held seasonally steady from established outlets such as food preservation and agrochemicals, particularly during spring agricultural activity.

Q1 2025:

In Q1 2025, the Asia Pacific propionic acid market experienced steady price increases fueled by seasonal agricultural demand, shifting feedstock trends, and firm export activity. January saw moderate gains as higher production and easing ethylene costs stabilized supply. Prices briefly dipped in early February due to oversupply and Lunar New Year disruptions, but surged late in the month with tightened regional supply and rising ethylene prices. March maintained the upward momentum, driven by herbicide demand in North China and steady food preservative consumption. Despite minor feedstock relief, low inventories and export-driven interest supported sustained price strength throughout the quarter.

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

Latin America Propionic Acid Price Trend

Q2 2025:

As per the propionic acid price index, seasonal stability prevailed across the food and agrochemical segments, the two largest end-use markets in the region. Brazil’s agribusiness sector showed a reliable baseline of agrochemical consumption, while Mexico and other markets saw consistent call-offs for food preservation. By late quarter, warmer seasonal conditions and restocking activity provided localized support. Food-related demand increased as higher temperatures spurred preservative use, helping spot activity pick up. Still, the rebound remained modest, as balanced availability and weak upstream crude oil and ethylene benchmarks abroad limited upside momentum.

Q1 2025:

In Q1 2025, propionic acid prices in Latin America, particularly Brazil, experienced moderate upward pressure driven by strong seasonal demand from agricultural applications and food preservation. Limited domestic production capacity increased reliance on imports, making the market sensitive to global freight fluctuations and upstream raw material costs. Port congestion and longer delivery timelines disrupted inventory replenishment, tightening regional supply. Demand remained consistent from livestock feed and crop protection segments, prompting buyers to secure essential volumes despite rising costs. Currency volatility further influenced import pricing, reinforcing cautious procurement strategies across the supply chain. Overall, tight supply and firm demand supported bullish pricing momentum.

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

Propionic Acid Price Trend, Market Analysis, and News

IMARC's latest publication, “Propionic Acid Prices, Trend, Chart, Demand, Market Analysis, News, Historical and Forecast Data Report 2025 Edition,” presents a detailed examination of the propionic acid market, providing insights into both global and regional trends that are shaping prices. This report delves into the spot price of propionic acid at major ports and analyzes the composition of prices, including FOB and CIF terms. It also presents detailed propionic acid prices trend analysis by region, covering North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East and Africa. The factors affecting propionic 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.

Propionic Acid Industry Analysis

The global propionic acid market size reached USD 1.85 Billion in 2024. By 2033​, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 2.35 Billion, at a projected CAGR of 2.57% during 2025-2033.

• Propionic acid is an important ingredient in the food industry. Its demand in this sector as a food preservative that prolongs shelf life and maintains product safety is expanding the market share. The food and beverage (F&B) sector is rising at an incredible rate. In emerging economies like India, it will reach a valuation of US$ 470 billion by 2025, up from US$ 263 billion in 2021. Regionally, in Europe, the F&B industry created a turnover of Euro 1.1 trillion in 2023. It has antimicrobial and antifungal properties, which are known to help prevent spoilage and ensure the longevity of food products in packaged and baked goods. The market for packaged food is also elevating at an increasing pace, with a 7% growth rate. It is expected to touch US$ 4,581.6 Billion by 2032. 
• The pharmaceutical sector relies heavily on propionic acid for the synthesis of many pharmaceuticals, including painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs. The pharmaceutical sector is growing at an astounding rate due to increased healthcare spending, better infrastructure, and greater awareness. For instance, by 2030, the pharmaceutical sector in India is projected to grow to $130 billion. Additionally, India exports a lot of medications to more than 200 nations. The country supplies over 50% of Africa’s requirement for generics, 40% of generic demand in the US, and 25% of all medicine in the UK. Also, the pharmaceutical industry in the UK has a turnover of 40.8 billion pounds.
• The cosmetic industry is embracing propionic acid thanks to its role in maintaining the optimal pH of cosmetics. As a result, propionic acid is incorporated into skincare and haircare products like body lotions, face creams, shampoos, sunscreens, and hair sprays. The market for cosmetics is growing at a yearly pace of 4.8% annually and will reach US$ 618.7 billion by 2032. Also, Europe is a huge market for cosmetics, with a value of €88 billion in sales. Its market is divided into nations that contribute to its rising popularity in the cosmetics and personal care sector. Germany amounted to €14.3 billion share, France €12.9 billion, Italy €11.5 billion, the UK €10.5 billion, Spain €9.3 billion, and Poland €4.5 billion. This has increased the need for propionic acid in Europe to deliver effective cosmetic products.
• The increase in population and demand for livestock products is favoring the product use in the animal feed industry. The compound is being used as a preservative in animal feed and grain to protect against mold and bacteria, which are known to spoil feed and cause disease in livestock. By 2050, there will be 10 billion people in the world. This number will keep increasing in the future, which is increasing the demand for effective preservatives like propionic acid.

Propionic Acid News

The report covers the latest developments, updates, and trends impacting the global propionic 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 propionic acid production technologies, strategic market expansions by key industry players, and significant mergers and acquisitions that impact the propionic acid price trend.

Latest developments in the propionic acid industry:

• In April 2022, BASF and SINOPEC announced the expansion of their Verbund site operated by BASF-YPC Co., Ltd. (BASF-YPC). It is a 50-50 joint venture of both companies in Nanjing. The expansion includes new capacities of several downstream chemical plants to serve the growing demand from various industries in the Chinese market. The new facility can produce 30,000 metric tons of propionic acid annually.
• In April 2022, Perstorp announced its plans to build a new carboxylic acid manufacturing plant in Sweden by 2024, adding a production capacity of around 70,000 metric tons per year for naturally occurring carboxylic acids such as propionic acid. The investment will enable Perstorp to increase output significantly and strengthen its position as the sustainable solutions provider.

Product Description

Propionic acid (C₃H₆O₂), also known as propanoic acid, is a naturally occurring carboxylic acid. It is a colorless and oily liquid with a pungent odor and is soluble in water. It is produced industrially through the hydrocarboxylation of ethylene using nickel carbonyl as the catalyst and is also formed by the bacterial fermentation of sugars. It is characterized by its antimicrobial and antifungal properties. It is produced using ethylene, carbon monoxide, and water, primarily in the presence of a catalyst.

Propionic acid finds application in food preservatives, herbicide production, plasticizer manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, animal feed preservation, perfume industry, paint solvent, and flavoring agent. It offers numerous benefits, such as extending food shelf life, inhibiting microbial growth, enhancing flavor, and contributing to sustainable practices in agriculture and industry. Moreover, it is lauded for its effectiveness at low concentrations, cost-efficiency, minimal toxicity, and environmental safety.

Report Coverage

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report presents a detailed analysis of propionic 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 propionic 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 propionic acid price charts ensure our clients remain at the forefront of the industry.