For the Quarter Ending June 2025
Asia-Pacific (APAC)
• Succinic Acid Price Index in APAC declined by 3.3% quarter-on-quarter, settling at USD 1,385/MT FOB Qingdao. The quarter saw mixed price movement, with softness in April and May, followed by a mild rebound in June due to volatility in crude oil and freight markets.
• Why did the price of Succinic Acid change in July 2025 in APAC? In early July 2025, the Price Index rose slightly, due to rise in seasonal demand for flavoring agents and steady momentum in the cosmetics and pharmaceutical sectors, even as logistics costs saw slight relief.
• The Succinic Acid Price Forecast for early Q3 2025 points to upward movement, driven by typical seasonal demand patterns, expected production constraints from power supply issues, and continued global cost pressures.
• The Succinic Acid Production Cost Trend remained volatile—feedstock benzene prices were inconsistent due to upstream crude volatility and logistics disruptions, while inland transport and energy-related costs continued to apply pressure on producer margins.
• Succinic Acid Demand Outlook was largely stable and positive, backed by robust downstream consumption in bio-based paints & coatings, personal care formulations, and pharmaceutical intermediates. Demand in Southeast Asia remained firm as regional freight relief improved cross-border movement.
• China’s export performance remained resilient, which was supported by pre-tariff shipment acceleration and continued procurement from Southeast Asian buyers.
• Domestic consumption in regions like the Yangtze Delta and Southern China remained buoyant due to increased demand from cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and flavoring agents, aided by seasonal trends and innovation-led applications in high-performance sectors.
North America
• Succinic Acid Price Index in North America declined by 8.2% quarter-on-quarter, reaching USD 1385/MT CFR Texas. The quarter witnessed mixed movement, with April and May showing downward momentum, while June saw a slight price recovery driven by crude oil volatility and logistical constraints.
• Why did the price of Succinic Acid change in July 2025 in the U.S.? In early July 2025, the Price Index remained firm, supported by sustained activity in eco-friendly construction materials and clean-label personal care products, although lower upstream volatility eased short-term cost pressure.
• According to the Succinic Acid Price Forecast, prices are likely to stay rangebound through mid-Q3, with potential upward risk if geopolitical disruptions in the Middle East escalate or if power shortages impact Chinese supply.
• The Succinic Acid Production Cost Trend stayed elevated, despite some feedstock relief, as upstream crude oil volatility and mounting ocean freight rates—compounded by global rerouting and port congestion—kept costs under pressure.
• The Succinic Acid Demand Outlook remained stable in Q2, driven by U.S. consumer preferences for low-VOC coatings and clean beauty products. Demand in agrochemicals was subdued due to rising costs and tariff concerns, while food-grade Succinic Acid maintained steady usage in dairy and flavoring applications.
• Imports increased steadily through Q2, with U.S. container volumes rising 1.8% in June, and West Coast ports—Los Angeles, Long Beach, Tacoma—experiencing visible improvements in traffic. This ensured a resilient supply despite global shipping volatility.
• Chinese and Asian producers maintained moderate operating rates, with China stabilizing exports and key logistics hubs recovering from earlier slowdowns. While ongoing tariff regimes and the suspension of the de minimis exemption continued to affect low-value shipments, broader trade activity remained intact for bulk imports.
Europe
• Succinic Acid Price Index in Europe fell by 6.8% quarter-on-quarter, settling at approximately USD 1363/MT CFR Hamburg. This minor increase followed a brief correction earlier in Q2 and was driven by rising logistics costs and crude-linked feedstock pressures.
• Why did the price of Succinic Acid change in July 2025 in Europe? In early July 2025, the Price Index stabilized, as inventories improved, feedstock volatility eased slightly, and prior restocking by pharmaceutical and coatings buyers reduced immediate procurement momentum.
• The Succinic Acid Price Forecast for early Q3 suggests a rangebound to slightly bullish trend, contingent on further Middle East developments, container shortages, and how quickly labor disruptions across key ports are resolved.
• The Succinic Acid Production Cost Trend remained elevated through June, as inconsistent benzene availability and surging crude oil prices increased input costs. Logistics complications from port strikes, Rhine shipping constraints, and driver shortages further raised inland freight expenses.
• The Succinic Acid Demand Outlook held steady, supported by firm demand from pharmaceuticals, especially generic formulations under cost pressure, and eco-friendly paints & coatings driven by regulatory and performance criteria.
• European imports from China continued, though supply chains were strained by labor shortages, port congestion, and route adjustments. Exporters faced rising costs and extended timelines, especially through Hamburg, Antwerp, and Bremerhaven.
• Demand from France, Benelux, and Central Europe slowed slightly in June, as earlier chemical procurement programs wound down, but stable offtake in personal care and automotive coatings offered downside protection against broader market softness.
For the Quarter Ending March 2025
North America
In Q1 2025, the North American Succinic Acid market followed a bearish price trend, shaped by declining upstream feedstock costs, global shipping disruptions, and trade tensions. Despite stable production in China, geopolitical uncertainties—such as U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports and retaliatory measures—created volatility in global trade flows. Supply chains were further strained by port congestion, fluctuating freight rates, and severe weather across Asia, impacting delivery schedules.
However, U.S. imports of Succinic Acid from China rose sharply due to pre-tariff stockpiling, ensuring adequate regional inventory levels. On the demand side, Succinic Acid consumption showed mixed performance. While the mass-market cosmetics segment declined due to weaker sales from major brands, the premium beauty sector grew steadily, with an increased focus on sustainable, bio-based ingredients aligning with evolving consumer preferences for clean beauty products. In pharmaceuticals, demand remained firm, bolstered by continued innovation, especially in biologics and API production, and domestic manufacturing initiatives by leading players.
Overall, despite external pressures, the market sustained moderate demand growth across core sectors, driven by long-term sustainability goals and the consistent role of Succinic Acid in cosmetics and pharmaceutical formulations.
APAC
During the first quarter of 2025, the Asian Succinic Acid market displayed a mixed price trend, shaped by shifts in feedstock dynamics, supply chain disruptions, and downstream demand. January began with a price decline, primarily driven by ample stock levels, declining feedstock costs for Benzene and n-butanol, and cautious market sentiment amidst a contracting Chinese manufacturing sector. The cosmetics segment faced demand pressures due to weak sales from major brands, although the pharmaceutical sector maintained steady consumption. In February, prices rebounded slightly as manufacturing activity recovered post-Spring Festival, and demand in premium skincare and pharmaceutical applications supported market fundamentals. However, limited feedstock Benzene supply and escalating geopolitical tensions—particularly new U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports—introduced volatility. By March, the market saw a renewed price decline as feedstock cost support softened due to easing crude oil prices, and regional logistics faced headwinds like port congestion and fluctuating freight rates. Despite reduced exports and slower global trade, downstream demand stayed resilient, especially from Asia’s growing wellness and pharmaceutical sectors. Overall, Q1 ended with a stable-to-weak price sentiment, underpinned by solid demand and ongoing supply chain complexities.
Europe
In Q1 2025, the European Succinic Acid market experienced a sustained bearish price trend, largely influenced by weakening upstream cost support, persistent logistical challenges, and fluctuating downstream demand. January began with a decline in prices as reduced demand, especially from the pharmaceutical sector, and easing feedstock costs for Benzene and n-butanol prompted price corrections. Despite stable production from key Asian exporters and a resilient European cosmetics sector, adverse winter weather hampered port operations, disrupting imports. In February, prices fell further as ocean freight rates dropped and carrier capacity was slashed by 30% on the Far East to Europe routes. At the same time, limited feedstock Benzene availability and geopolitical tensions, including new U.S. tariffs, contributed to market volatility. However, Succinic Acid demand remained firm, driven by growth in premium and sustainable cosmetics and renewed pharmaceutical demand under the Critical Medicines Act. In March, prices declined again amid shipping disruptions, port congestion in Europe, and easing upstream costs following OPEC+'s decision to unwind crude production cuts. Despite supply chain hurdles and external trade pressures, demand from the cosmetics and pharmaceutical sectors stayed consistently strong, underpinned by innovation and sustainability trends, ensuring steady downstream consumption throughout the quarter.
For the Quarter Ending December 2024
North America
In the North American region, Succinic Acid prices experienced a notable overall decrease of 11% during the fourth quarter of 2024, driven by a combination of steady supply and moderate demand across key sectors. Production and supply rates were stable in the key Asian exporter China, despite some slowdowns due to rising input and energy costs. The market saw a firm supply of Succinic Acid, bolstered by ample stocks and stable feedstock availability.
However, moderate to low offtakes, particularly from downstream industries, put downward pressure on prices. Demand from the cosmetics sector remained robust, especially in the U.S., driven by strong e-commerce sales during the holiday season. The paints and coatings sector also saw increased demand due to a shift toward environmentally friendly products.
Despite these positive trends, export growth remained sluggish, especially from China, with imports into the U.S. witnessing a decline, partially due to tariff concerns and slower-than-expected trade from major exporters. The overall decrease in prices reflected a balance of steady supply, cautious demand, and the global economic backdrop, including inflationary pressures and geopolitical factors influencing market conditions.
APAC
In the final quarter of 2024, Succinic Acid prices experienced an overall decrease of 6% in the Asian region, reflecting moderate demand coupled with stable supply conditions. Production rates remained steady, supported by sufficient feedstock supplies and a slight upward trend in crude oil prices, which helped maintain production levels despite some cost pressures. The availability of stocks was ample, contributing to moderate to low offtakes from downstream industries. The cosmetics sector saw resilient demand, driven by an increase in retail sales and the rising popularity of men’s skincare, especially in digital platforms. This supported the demand for Succinic Acid in personal care formulations. However, the food and pharmaceutical sectors faced subdued demand due to lower food prices and reduced inflation, which impacted Succinic Acid consumption in these industries. Exports saw some growth, particularly to ASEAN markets, though overall export growth was slower than in previous months. Exports to Russia showed a noticeable decline, reflecting geopolitical factors and other market dynamics. The paints and coatings sector also saw increased demand, driven by Asia's expanding market, while China's export volumes in coatings grew significantly. The overall market was characterized by steady supply, but the lack of strong demand growth across key sectors contributed to the price decline during the quarter.
Europe
Similarly, in the European market, the Succinic Acid market experienced a consistent downward trend during Q4 of 2024, with prices decreasing by 9% overall compared to the previous quarter. This decline was largely attributed to a combination of factors, including stable production rates and ample stock availability, which led to lower demand from downstream industries. While Succinic Acid production remained steady in key regions, such as China, and supply levels were firm, demand across several sectors showed signs of weakness. In particular, the food sector saw moderate consumption rates, and the cosmetics sector experienced a slight decrease in demand due to rising scrutiny and increasing costs. Additionally, the European construction sector’s ongoing contraction weakened demand for adhesives and sealants negatively impacted Succinic Acid consumption to PU foam. Export growth from China slowed, and logistical disruptions, including storm-related rail congestion and port delays in Europe, further impacted supply dynamics. Overall, these factors, combined with a decline in manufacturing activity in the Eurozone, contributed to the 9% reduction in Succinic Acid prices during the quarter.
For the Quarter Ending September 2024
North America
In Q3 2024, the Succinic Acid price trend oscillated in the North American region, showcasing moderate sentiments in the market. At the beginning of the quarter, prices witnessed a notable increase, driven by a combination of factors influencing the market dynamics. Factors such as steady demand, limited supplies, and cost support from feedstock Benzene and affected supplies due to hurricanes in the region contributed to the overall bullish market sentiment, highlighting a stable and robust pricing landscape for Succinic Acid in the region.
In the middle of the third quarter, Succinic Acid production rates improved in the exporting Asian region because of the improved availability of feedstock supplies. The offtakes were moderate, and market players reduced their quotations. The correlation in price changes demonstrated a positive sentiment, with an almost 3% decrease in mid-Q3.
Towards the end of Q3, the impact of Hurricane Helene resulted in reduced manufacturing activities and demand from end-user industries and an increase in domestic stockpiles. The market players again reduced their quotations. The quarter-ending price in the USA stood at USD 1810/MT of Succinic Acid CFR Texas and the overall quarter-on-quarter percentage surge of 11% further solidified this growth trajectory in Q3 2024.
APAC
Like the North American region, the Succinic Acid price trend in the APAC region has been characterized by a fluctuating pricing environment. Initially, the quarter witnessed a significant surge in demand for Succinic Acid from various industries, particularly the cosmetics and personal care sectors. This uptick in demand, coupled with moderate supply levels, led to a bullish market sentiment. Additionally, cost support from feedstock Benzene and n--butanol contributed to the rise in production costs of Succinic Acid during the period. However, towards the end of the quarter, the Succinic Acid price trend shifted movement and prices witnessed a decline due to improved inventory levels in the region. At the same time, the resumption of Crude Oil supply from Libya in September 2024 resulted in increased refinery run rates and feedstock Benzene supplies availability, which negatively impacted the production costs. The quarter-ending price for Succinic Acid FOB Qingdao in China stood at USD 1490/MT after a 5% increase in previous quarter prices, reflecting the overall positive pricing environment and upward trend in market prices.
Europe
In Q3, the Succinic Acid market in the European region has been characterized by a fluctuating pricing environment. At the beginning of the quarter, prices showcased an upward movement, as the demand was firm from the key downstream pharma sector, while the manufacturing activities were low amid labor shortages during summer holidays in the region. Reduced production with a consistent decline in the Eurozone Manufacturing PMI Index resulted in low supplies to the market and stressed the inventory levels amid firm offtakes. Supply-side dynamics also played a role, as supply availability was moderately low during the summer holidays creating imbalanced demand-supply dynamics. Yet demand failed to match this increase, as The Eurozone's beauty sector demand continued to remain robust, significantly impacting Succinic Acid consumption. Seasonality played a role as summer holidays resulted in labor shortages and reduced manufacturing rates, impacting supply chains. Additionally, concerns about a potential recession in the US affecting the international crude oil market and refinery operations have led to a shortage of feedstock Benzene supplies, impacting Succinic Acid production rates. Conclusively, the quarter concluded with Succinic Acid CFR Hamburg priced at USD 1690/MT, in Germany, after an overall notable surge of 8% in the last quarter's prices, indicating a consistent upward trend.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is the current price of Succinic Acid in APAC?
By the end of Q1 2025, Succinic Acid prices in China stood at approximately USD 1285/MT FOB Qingdao.
What is the current price of Succinic Acid in North America?
By the end of Q1 2025, Succinic Acid prices in the USA stood at approximately USD 1385/MT CFR Texas.
What is the current price of Succinic Acid in Europe?
By the end of Q1 2025, Succinic Acid prices in Germany stood at approximately USD 1363/MT FOB Hamburg.
Why did Succinic Acid prices change in July 2025?
APAC: Prices likely increased slightly, as seasonal demand from flavoring agents and sustained consumption in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals offset minor relief in logistics costs.
North America: Prices likely stabilized, as sustained demand in eco-friendly construction and clean-label personal care products balanced out easing upstream cost pressures.
Europe: Prices likely stabilized slightly, as production levels normalized, inventories improved, and earlier restocking by pharmaceutical and coatings buyers curbed fresh demand.
