Asia
During Q3’25, isobutyric acid prices in Asia showed a slightly firm trend, driven mainly by changes in the upstream isobutyraldehyde and propylene markets. The shutdown of key PDH plants in China, especially Tianjin and Quanzhou, caused a drop in the availability of propylene a crucial feedstock for isobutyraldehyde, which in turn affected isobutyric acid market.
Despite weak demand in the downstream chemical and plastic sectors, the supply limitations supported prices for much of the quarter. However, the overall buying interest stayed cautious due to sluggish activity in industries like coatings and resins, keeping the market from experiencing any sharp price spikes.
Europe
In Europe, isobutyric acid prices remained mostly flat to slightly weak over the quarter. Feedstock propylene was in good supply, and production of isobutyraldehyde remained stable as cracker operations continued without major disruptions. However, demand from end-use sectors such as solvents, pharmaceuticals, and chemical intermediates was not strong enough to create any price momentum.
The market was also influenced by steady imports, including some inflows from Asia, which kept supply levels comfortable. Overall, with weak consumption and balanced supply, the market maintained a soft undertone throughout the quarter.
North America
In North America, isobutyric acid prices stayed under pressure during Q3. The region experienced high availability of upstream feedstocks, especially propylene, as refinery and gas plant activity remained strong. This led to stable to lower production costs for isobutyraldehyde and, by extension, isobutyric acid.
However, demand from downstream sectors such as coatings, plastics, and additives stayed muted, with buyers sticking to minimal purchasing patterns. Additionally, limited export movement and weak international interest kept domestic supply levels high, which further contributed to the downward price trend.