Acetic Acid Market Size and Share Outlook - Forecast Trends and Growth Analysis Report (2025-2034)

The global acetic acid market size reached a value of USD 24.41 Billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.10% from 2025-2034, aiming for a value of USD 40.14 Billion by 2034.

The remarkable growth of the global acetic acid market is fueled by growing demand in a number of sectors, such as food and beverages, textiles, and pharmaceuticals. Acetic acid is a key raw material in the manufacturing of vinyl acetate monomer (VAM), which is used extensively in adhesives, coatings, and paints. Its increasing usage in food preservation and chemical manufacture is also propelling market growth. Major players such as Celanese Corporation, LyondellBasell Industries, and Eastman Chemical Company are significantly investing in increasing production capacities to address this increasing demand. There is also a growth in the production of bio-based acetic acid, complying with sustainability trends.

One of the main growth drivers is the industrial-scale use of acetic acid in the manufacture of purified terephthalic acid (PTA), which is used for polyester fibers and PET bottles. In addition, acetic acid plays a crucial role in the production of intermediates and solvents for the pharma sector. BP Plc and Daicel Corporation are leading players, with a focus on innovation and cost-effective production techniques of acetic acid. The shift towards bio-based and recycled acetic acid is also driving the market growth, as companies try to cut down on their carbon footprint and meet regulatory requirements through sustainable means.

Acetic Acid Market Trends

The increasing requirement of PET bottles and glass bottles is playing a major role in propelling the market growth. Since industries are adopting green packaging, PET bottles are replacing conventional glass bottles because of their light weight and recyclable nature. Acetic acid is one of the major raw materials used to manufacture purified terephthalic acid (PTA), which is a major input for the production of PET. Besides that, regulatory limitations on single-use plastics are compelling firms to seek bio-based alternatives to acetic acid, thus increasing the global demand for market growth. These are some of the factors driving the increasing demand for acetic acid, guaranteeing its consistent demand globally in the packaging and beverage sectors.

The versatility of acetic acid guarantees its widespread use across multiple industries, with the textile industry being one of them globally. Acetic acid finds a basic application in the dyeing of goods, treating materials, and manufacture of synthetic textiles. In addition, the increase in demand for plastics like polyethylene terephthalate (PET) also drives acetic acid's market expansion. Ongoing increase in plastic applications in the packaging, automotive, and consumer sectors keeps production stable. Growing industrialization and urbanization result in major manufacturers investing in sophisticated technology in producing acetic acid, guaranteeing supply with environmental stewardship while addressing sustainability issues on world markets.

Key Trends and Recent Developments

Growing shift towards renewable production; increasing demand for speciality acetic acid; rising emphasis on sustainability; and technological advancements are favouring the acetic acid market expansion.

November 2024

INEOS Acetyls signed a MoU with Gujarat Narmada Valley Fertilizers & Chemicals Ltd (GNFC) to explore the feasibility of developing a 600kt Acetic Acid plant at GNFC's site in Bharuch, Gujarat, India.

May 2023

Sekab expanded the production of bio-based acetic acid to reduce the carbon footprint by up to 50%. The acetic acid is 100% bio-based and has undergone comprehensive certification in accordance with the ISCC+ standards.

March 2023

KBR announced the acquisition of Acetica℠, an acetic acid production technology, expanding its petrochemicals value chain through a profitable pathway for CO2 utilisation. The technology enables the back-integration of CO2 from carbon capture to produce high-value chemicals such as Vinyl Acetate Monomer (VAM).

October 2019

BP signed a MoU with China’s Zhejiang Petroleum and Chemical Corporation (ZPCC) to operate a 1 million tonne per annum (tpa) acetic acid plant in eastern China. The facility, in Zhoushan, Zhejiang Province, aims to deploy BP’s CATIVA® XL technology to produce acetic acid.

Growing shift towards renewable production

Bio-based acetic acid, produced from renewable sources like bioethanol, is significantly reducing the carbon footprint of production and supporting companies to meet sustainability goals. Key players are attempting to convert industrial by-products (vinegar production waste) and agricultural waste into acetic acid, lowering environmental waste and contributing to sustainability.

Increasing demand for speciality acetic acid

Manufacturers are investing in specialised equipment, advanced production facilities, and quality control measures to develop speciality acetic acid tailored to meet the specific needs of sectors such as personal care, food and beverages, and advanced chemicals.

Rising focus on sustainable packaging solutions

With the growing focus of manufacturers to adopt environmentally-friendly packaging solutions, acetic acid and chemical manufacturers are exploring alternatives to plastic packaging, such as metal containers and paper-based packaging solutions.

Technological advancements

Advancements in catalytic technologies and the development of more efficient catalysts aimed at lowering production costs and energy consumption of acetic acid production while improving its output are driving the market. In addition, technological advancements in filtration, distillation, and purification leading to the production of high-quality acetic acid for use in speciality applications are expected to revolutionise the acetic acid market landscape in the forecast period.

Industry Dynamics

The acetic acid market is increasing with increasing global demand for its use in the food, pharma, and chemical industries. Large industries employ acetic acid to manufacture adhesives, textiles, and plastics, thereby augmenting the global demand for market. Industrialization and enhancing consumer demand for greener alternatives are forcing companies to raise their capacity and seek bio-based alternatives to meet rising market demand.

The quality of acetic acid used in food applications is a key imperative in terms of market growth. Food-grade acetic acid must go through very strict standards as far as safety and purity are concerned so that it is rendered safe for consumption. Maintaining the overall quality is critical since governments impose strict controls for ensuring stability in food pickling, preserving, and flavoring purposes, which encourages producers to focus on advanced technology.

The transformation towards eco-friendly products is redefining the market, with companies embracing sustainable approaches to minimize environmental footprints. Demand for industry-specific innovations have generated high-level dynamics and competition among key players. Companies are manufacturing bio-based acetic acid to attract green-conscious consumers at a cost-effective price, thus gaining a competitive edge in the evolving market scenario.

A strong brand reputation is paramount in achieving acetic acid business success. Factors like style, packaging, and advertising help shape the brand positioning in the market. Companies that invest in sophisticated branding practices, effective marketing campaigns, and innovative packaging establish their niches in the competitive market. Brand image and consumer trust ultimately influence consumption habits, determining business sustainability in the long term.

Application Insights

The increasing applications of vinyl acetate in emulsions and adhesives are propelling the increasing demand for paints & coatings worldwide. With the industries' movement towards waterborne and eco-friendly coatings, the use of acetic acid to produce polyvinyl acetate (PVA) has increased. PVA is used in wood adhesives, fibers, and construction materials, thus fueling market growth. Furthermore, more infrastructure development and car production is raising demand for high-performance coatings, hence fueling acetic acid consumption even more. With environmental regulations focusing on low-VOC coatings increasingly, manufacturers are investing in bio-based acetic acid technologies, remaining sustainable while meeting industrial demands. The trends are positioning acetic acid as a key raw material in many industries, driving long-term market growth and development.

Manufacturing of cigarette filters is greatly dependent on acetic acid-derived cellulose acetate. With increasing demand for low-toxicity filters, acetic acid remains a valuable product to manufacture good-quality cigarette filters. With growing health awareness and increasing regulation of tobacco products by government bodies, organizations are being driven to develop newer filtration technologies. Thus, utilization of acetic acid in cigarette filter manufacturing remains on the rise.

Regional Insights

The acetic acid market in North America is registering consistent growth, owing to its uses in chemicals, food, and packaging industries. Acetic acid is widely used in the manufacture of vinyl acetate monomer (VAM) and purified terephthalic acid (PTA), which finds application in adhesives and PET bottles. The demand for the product in the pharmaceutical industry is increasing as well owing to the use of acetic acid in aspirin and other drug manufacturing. Increased industrialization, along with sustainability programs, is also increasing the consumption of acetic acid throughout North America, assuring long-term market growth.

U.S. Acetic Acid Market Trends

The acetic acid market in the U.S. is expanding with its growing application in food, chemicals, and pharma. The quality of acetic acid is an important consideration, specifically in the preservation of food and flavoring, where food-grade standards are particularly stringent. Increased consumer demand for safety and high-purity food ingredients is stimulating innovation in purification methods. Further, the growth of the demand for acetic acid in North America is driven by its application in manufacturing vinyl acetate monomer (VAM) and purified terephthalic acid (PTA), which are needed for packaging and industrial uses.

The Canada acetic acid market is growing as industries need high-performance and sustainable chemical products. The demand for intermediates like acetic acid is increasing, especially in pharmaceuticals, textiles, and adhesives. Canada's drive toward environmentally sustainable production processes are driving investment towards bio-based acetic acid. The demand for paints and coatings, where the role of acetic acid is vital, from the construction industry is further driving market growth. Advanced production technologies are being used by major manufacturers to respond to changing industry requirements.

Asia Pacific Acetic Acid Market Trends

The acetic acid market in Asia Pacific is growing at an alarming pace because of the increasing demand from pharmaceutical, textile, and packaging industries. Increasing industrialization and urbanization in nations like China and India are pushing demand for by-products such as adhesives, coatings, and plastics. Acetic acid plays a major role in the development of medicines, especially active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). The growing number of healthcare facilities and skyrocketing drug exports will keep the region one of the most significant consumers and innovators in acetic acid.

China Acetic Acid Market

The acetic acid market in China is growing robustly, backed by active industrial development and further production capacity enhancement. The increasing demand for acetic acid comes from applications such as adhesives, textiles, and packaging. Acetic acid is a key raw material for the production of vinyl acetate monomer (VAM) and purified terephthalic acid (PTA), which are mostly required in the manufacture of synthetic fibres and PET bottles. Since China is by far the largest producer and consumer of acetic acid, the overall demand for acetic acid in the whole region continues to grow, fold among other reasons, by growing both exports and domestic consumption.

Acetic Acid Market in India

The acetic acid market in India is increasing because of its increased applications in the textile, pharmaceutical, and packaging industries. Increased demand for intermediates like acetic acid is being experienced in growing quantities for producing purified terephthalic acid (PTA) and vinyl acetate monomer (VAM). The country is rapidly industrializing and improving its infrastructural base; consequently, there will be increased demand for acetic acid in paints, coatings, adhesives, and so on. Furthermore, government policies that encourage chemical production within the country will promote increased local production and make India a world player in the acetic acid market.

Europe Acetic Acid Market Trends

The acetic acid market in Europe is now progressing steadily and becomes an attractive area because of its usage in the pharmaceuticals, food preservation, and chemical areas. This in turn boosts the ethyl acetate and butyl acetate markets, both which are required for coatings, adhesives, and solvents, hence creating demand for acetic acid. The region is also benefiting from an increase in bio-based acetic acid production, with more focus now than before placed on achieving sustainability. Moreover, the competitiveness of the market will be driven by the cost and availability of the key feedstock methanol for the production of acetic acid. With these industrial advancements, Europe continues to lead as a global producer of acetic acid.

UK Acetic Acid Market

This growth in the UK acetic acid market is due to its wider industrial applications. In other words, acetic acid is used in vinegars, plastics, chemicals, food preservation, packaging, and coatings. Acetic acid plays a crucial role in various sectors, including vinegar, plastics, and chemicals production. Such a need is further supplemented due to the buoyant industry of textiles in the country. Bio-based acetic acid production is also on the rise in the country, given the need for high-performance and sustainable materials, thus ensuring continuous future development in many sectors.

Central & South America Acetic Acid Market Trends

Increase in food preservation, textiles, and pharmaceuticals are some of the factors driving the acetic acid market in Central and South America. Further, adhesives, coatings, and PET bottles in the chemical and packaging industries of the region increasingly relies on acetic acid for production. Lastly, much of the industrial development and investment in sustainable manufacturing technology contributes to further expansion of the market across the region.

MEA Acetic Acid Market Trends

The acetic acid market in the Middle East & Africa has grown because of the increasing demand from industrial applications of chemicals, textiles and foods. The acetic acid produced in Saudi Arabia, as an example, is a very important contributor to the development of such petrochemicals and polymers with an excellent industrial basis. On the other hand, with a consistent and increased demand for medicines that rely on acetic acid as a principal key component, the steady growth of the pharmaceutical sector in the region drives an increase in the requirement for acetic acid. Investments increase in the health and infrastructure sectors, thus improving the MEA region's ability to manufacture acetic acid for domestic consumption and export opportunities.

Key Acetic Acid Company Insights

Key acetic acid market players are extensively investing in expanding their production capacities to meet the growing demand for acetic acid in diverse end-use sectors, ranging from food to construction. Acetic acid companies are also investing in advanced production technologies and innovations such as oxidative coupling of methane and improved methanol carbonylation to gain a competitive edge.

Eastman Chemical Company

Founded in 1920, based in Kingsport, Tennessee, USA, Eastman provides high-purity acetic acid for industry use, covering coatings, textiles, and food-grade application. Eastman is concerned with sustainable production processes and delivers acetic acid for the production of vinyl acetate monomer (VAM), acetate esters, and purified terephthalic acid (PTA) to sustain global chemical and polymer industries.

LyondellBasell Industries Holdings B.V.

Established in 2007, headquartered in Rotterdam, Netherlands, LyondellBasell manufactures acetic acid mainly for petrochemical and plastic use. The firm incorporates acetic acid into vinyl acetate monomer (VAM) and acetic anhydride production and supplies them to adhesives, coatings, and packaging markets. Its sophisticated technology and high production capacity provide a secure global supply.

HELM AG

Founded in 1900, with its headquarters in Hamburg, Germany, HELM AG is a prominent distributor of acetic acid to industries such as pharmaceuticals, textiles, and food processing. HELM AG sources and supplies high-grade acetic acid for the production of acetate esters, purified terephthalic acid (PTA), and ethanol. HELM AG maintains a robust supply chain through worldwide alliances and logistics capabilities.

Indian Oil Corporation Ltd.

Established in 1959, with its base in New Delhi, India, Indian Oil Corporation manufactures acetic acid as one of its petrochemical products. Indian Oil provides acetic acid to be used in vinyl acetate monomer (VAM), acetic anhydride, and solvent manufacturing. Indian Oil is keen to develop India's chemical industry and responds significantly to local demand and export demand.

Key Acetic Acid Companies:

• SABIC
• Eastman Chemical Company
• Gujarat Narmada Valley Fertilizers & Chemicals Limited
• Dow
• British Petroleum
• LyondellBasell Industries Holdings B.V.
• HELM AG
• Indian Oil Corporation Ltd.
• Celanese Corporation
• Jiangsu Sopo
• Chang Chun Group
• Daicel Corporation
• Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation.
• Svensk Etanolkemi AB (SEKAB)
• INEOS Group Holdings S.A
• Global Chemical Resources
• Altiras Chemicals LLC
• Saudi Basic Industries Corporation
• Anant Pharmaceuticals Pvt. Ltd.
• Others

Recent Developments

• In November 2024, GNFC collaborated with INEOS to construct a 600kt acetic acid factory in Gujarat, bringing down India's 85% import dependency. The venture is in line with 'Make in India', and operations are anticipated by 2028, filling GNFC with market confidence.
• In May 2023, Sekab increased its bio-based acetic acid production, cutting carbon footprints by as much as 50%. Its Acetic Acid Pure is ISCC+ certified, guaranteeing sustainability, greater supply, and consistent, environmentally friendly chemical alternatives for industries.
• In May 2023, Lenzing commemorated 40 years of LENZING™ Acetic Acid Biobased, introducing its carbon-neutral alternative at Chemspec Europe 2023. Lenzing keeps pushing the frontiers of sustainability, lowering carbon footprints, and serving several industries with biobased acetic acid together with Evonik and Speyer & Grund Group.
• In March 2023, KBR acquired Acetica, a state-of-the-art acetic acid technology, enhancing its leadership in the chemical industry. Acetica adds value to KBR's technology portfolio, complementing its capabilities to address the increasing demand for acetic acid globally.

Global Acetic Acid Market Report Segmentation

The report titled “Global Acetic Acid Market Report and Forecast 2025-2034” offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:

Application Outlook (Revenue, Billion, 2025-2034)

• Vinyl Acetate Monomer (VAM)
• Purified Terephthalic Acid (PTA)
• Acetic Anhydride
• Acetate Esters
• Ethanol
• Others

End Use Industry Outlook (Revenue, Billion, 2025-2034)

• Plastics and Polymers
• Food and Beverages
• Inks, Paints, and Coatings
• Chemicals
• Pharmaceuticals
• Others

Region Outlook (Revenue, Billion, 2025-2034)

• China
• North America
• Western/Eastern Europe
• North East Asia
• South East Asia
• Middle East & Africa