US Acetone Market Struggles to Stand Still Amidst the Weak Demand
- 30-Dec-2024 6:30 PM
- Journalist: Thomas Jefferson
Acetone prices have been on a downward trajectory, with market sources pointing to weakening demand as the key driver behind the decline. Towards the end of the December, Acetone prices have been assessed lower, following a noticeable drop in buying activity, which has raised concerns among producers and suppliers alike.
An industry insider from the U.S. Gulf region, speaking anonymously, noted that while Acetone prices have remained stable for an extended period, overall market momentum has significantly slowed. Despite the prices holding steady, purchasing activity has noticeably weakened. This lack of demand has been further compounded by a lack of substantial market activity, contributing to the stagnation in the Acetone market.
A similar trend is emerging in Asia. Market discussions have thinned, and buying appetite has dropped. An industry source says reduced buying interest is lowering Acetone prices. The subdued demand is continuing to strain Acetone prices, leading to an ongoing decline. Both the U.S. and Asian markets are feeling the effects of slow demand, and this trend is likely to persist unless there is a shift in market dynamics.
The weakening momentum reflects broader market uncertainties, with stakeholders cautiously watching for any signs of recovery. As the Acetone market grapples with reduced buying pressure, experts suggest that the next few weeks could be critical in determining whether the trend will continue or if a reversal is on the horizon.
With supply-demand dynamics in flux, producers are left navigating a more challenging landscape, adjusting their strategies to cope with this prolonged period of reduced activity. For now, the Acetone market remains in a holding pattern, as participants await signs of renewed demand.
This week, liquid tanker rates have remained largely stable as the freight market enters its usual seasonal slowdown during the holidays. Notably, tanker freight offers from the U.S. Gulf to the East Coast of Mexico have experienced the most significant increase, rising slightly by 1%. On average, tanker freight rates from the U.S. Gulf, Pacific Northwest, and Brazil have shown little movement in the early part of the week, ahead of the holiday period.
Acetone market is dependent upon the production capacity and demand outlook for the same in the domestic and international market. According to ChemAnalyst, the Acetone market in the USA is expected to face continued weak demand and fluctuating price ranges, influenced by factors such as geopolitical tensions, production costs, and a slow operational pace.