In January 2025, Methyl n-amyl ketone (MAK) market showed bullish price trend in North America despite challenges in the beauty and personal care sector. U.S. containerized imports hit a record high, with strong demand driven by strategic stockpiling and new tariffs. Although Revolution Beauty faces up-to 25% sales decline, the overall demand for MAK remains stable. The anticipated rebound in the beauty industry, coupled with new product launches and a recovery in consumer demand, is expected to drive MAK consumption upward.

Increased U.S. containerized imports and firm exports from Asia contributed to a surge in market activity, leading to increased prices for MAK in January 2025. U.S. imports hit a record high, with a significant increase in shipments from China, fuelled by strategic stockpiling and anticipation of new tariffs. Despite looming trade tensions and potential tariffs from the U.S., Asian exporters maintained strong shipments, pushing prices higher as both regions adjusted to evolving trade policies.

Meanwhile, MAK production in key producer and exporter China remains stable, supported by consistent feedstock acetone availability. The stability in the acetone market, driven by steady phenol production and cumene pricing, ensured a reliable feedstock supply for MAK manufacturing, and Chinese producers continued to adjust output based on acetone availability.

Concurrently, the decline in the beauty sector led to stable demand for MAK, which is used in cosmetics and fragrances.

Despite the short-term setback, key consumers remain optimistic about a return to growth in fiscal 2026, focusing on strategies to drive long-term stability. Similarly, the future demand outlook for MAK faces challenges due to current market conditions but holds potential for recovery. As the beauty sector rebounds, MAK consumption is expected to rise, driven by new product launches and a return to steady consumer demand. Like key consumers focusing on inventory management, the MAK market will need to adapt to changing demand patterns and economic fluctuations to ensure sustained growth and stability in the coming years.

Simultaneously, the U.S. paints and coatings industry experienced challenges in January 2025, with PPG Industries reporting 5% sales decline due to weak demand for industrial and architectural coatings. Similarly, Sherwin-Williams projected lower-than-expected annual profits amid ongoing demand softness. This trend negatively impacted the demand for MAK, which is used in coatings and fragrances. As industry players focus on cost-cutting measures and cautious outlooks, the reduced market activity could impact MAK consumption in the near term.

In conclusion, while short-term pressure may keep MAK prices stable or slightly lower due to declines in the beauty and coatings sectors, a rebound in the beauty industry and new product launches are expected to drive demand, potentially will increase prices in the medium to long term.