Why did the Acetic Anhydride Price Change in July 2025? The Acetic Anhydride Price Index in Belgium held at USD 960/MT FD Antwerp through June 2025, supported by steady feedstock economics (methanol at EUR 625/MT, acetic acid at USD 590/MT) despite rising bankruptcies in construction and industrial manufacturing.

Acetic Anhydride prices were lower during 2024. Pricing analysis indicates a slight recovery is anticipated during the latter half, as inventory adjustments and prudent demand management have shown restraint.

Get the latest insights on price movement and trend analysis of Ethanoic Anhydride in different regions across the world (Asia, Europe, North America, Latin America, and the Middle East Africa).

The report covers Global Acetic Anhydride Market Analysis and it is segmented by Application (Coating Material, Explosive, Plasticizer, Synthesizer, and Other Applications), End-user Industry (Tobacco, Pharmaceutical, Laundry & Cleaning, Agrochemical, Textile, and Other End-user Industries), and Geography (Asia-Pacific, North America, Europe, South America, and Middle East & Africa).

• The global industry was valued at US$ 2.4 Bn in 2023
• It is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 4.3% from 2024 to 2034 and reach US$ 3.8 Bn by the end of 2034

Market Introduction

Regional Outlook

Acetic Anhydride Market Snapshot

The global acetic anhydride market attained a value of USD 3.20 Billion in 2024 and projected to grow at a CAGR of about 4.90% during 2025-2034 and is expected to reach a value of USD 5.16 Billion by 2034.

The global acetic anhydride market is anticipated to expand at substantial CAGR during forecast period, between 2020 and 2026. Acetic anhydride is a colorless liquid used to manufacture cellulose acetate. The latter is categorized into acetate propionate (CAP), cellulose tri-acetate, and cellulose di-acetate.
Acetic anhydride is used to manufacture resins & polymers, artificial sweeteners, tetraacetylethylenediamine (TAED), explosives, agrochemicals, and coating materials. Also known as ethanoic anhydride, it is made from acetic acid. The product can cause side effects when it comes in contact with the skin; therefore, several governments have imposed regulations restricting its use and preventing its use for domestic purposes.

Market Trends, Drivers, Restraints, and Opportunities:

• The demand for cellulose acetate flakes is increasing from the chemical industry. This, in turn, is fueling the demand for the market.
• Used in medicines prescribed for pain, cold, and fever. Increase in prevalence of these health-related issues is projected to boost the use of this chemical in the pharmaceutical industry.
• This chemical is used to manufacture filters that are used in cigarettes; therefore, the increase in the number of smokers globally is likely to fuel market growth.
• Used to manufacture pesticides and herbicides. Rise in demand to grow food for the ever growing population is projected to increase the production of acetic anhydride increase.
• Can cause side effects if comes in contact with the skin. Side effects associated with the acetic anhydride prevent its usage in domestic and industrial products. This, in turn, is likely to impede the growth of market.

Scope of the report:

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Acetic Anhydride market size is USD 3152.2 million in 2024 and will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.0% from 2024 to 2031.

North America held the major market of more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 1260.88 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.2% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a share of over 30% of the global market size of USD 945.66 million.
Asia Pacific held the market of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 725.01 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.0% from 2024 to 2031.
Latin America market of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 157.61 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.4% from 2024 to 2031.
Middle East and Africa held the major market of around 2% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 63.04 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.7% from 2024 to 2031.
The Coating Material held the highest Acetic Anhydride market revenue share in 2024.

Market Dynamics of Acetic Anhydride Market

Key Drivers of Acetic Anhydride Market

Expanding Applications to Increase the Demand Globally

Growth is driven by the increasing applications of acetic anhydride in various sectors. Its ability to improve stain removal efficacy in laundry detergents as a forerunner to TAED indicates its versatility. Furthermore, acetic anhydride is a crucial intermediary used in the pharmaceutical industry to make a variety of medications, such as aspirin and paracetamol. Acetic anhydride needs are directly correlated with the increased demand for these pharmaceuticals, driven by factors including population growth and developments in healthcare. The demand for acetic anhydride is anticipated to rise due to its critical function in numerous sectors, which highlights the significance of this fundamental chemical component.

Growth in Specific End-User Industries to Propel Market Growth

Expanding certain end-user sectors, such as tobacco, agrochemicals, and textiles, supports the demand for acetic anhydride. Acetic anhydride plays a crucial role in producing cellulose acetate flakes, which are widely used in textile applications and have characteristics including durability and adaptability. Furthermore, acetic anhydride is used by the tobacco industry to produce cellulose acetate tow, which is a crucial part of cigarette filters. Furthermore, acetic anhydride is an essential component in synthesizing several agrochemicals, which help support agricultural practices by facilitating the manufacturing of herbicides and pesticides. Acetic anhydride is expected to become more in demand as these businesses grow, underscoring its significance in various industries.

Restraint Factors Of Acetic Anhydride Market

Fluctuating Raw Material Costs to Limit the Sales

Manufacturers of acetic anhydride face major difficulties due to fluctuating raw material costs, especially those of acetic acid. The price volatility of acetic acid, a vital precursor, directly impacts production costs and the profitability of acetic anhydride makers. Unexpected price hikes for acetic acid may increase manufacturing costs and reduce profit margins. On the other hand, while acetic acid price drops may offer short-term respite, they may also cause problems for supply chains and contractual obligations. Manufacturers frequently employ hedging techniques, negotiate long-term supply contracts, and look for alternate sourcing possibilities to lessen the effects of shifting raw material costs and preserve market stability and competitiveness.

Impact of COVID-19 on the Acetic Anhydride Market

The market for acetic anhydride has been affected by the COVID-19 epidemic in several ways. Production numbers were first impacted by a decline in demand from sectors such as textiles, medicines, and agrochemicals due to lockdown measures and supply chain disruptions. The necessity of the pharmaceutical industry, however, offset part of the fall, as acetic anhydride is still needed for the production of drugs, particularly necessary ones like paracetamol. The market recovered as economies progressively opened again and consumer demand increased. Furthermore, the pandemic's increased emphasis on hygiene and cleanlin...

During Q1 2025, acetic anhydride prices in the USA declined steadily from January through March, reflecting a clear quarter-on-quarter and year-on-year weakening trend. This downtrend was primarily driven by sluggish demand from the pharmaceutical sector, which remained conservative in procurement amid elevated inventories and restrained production cycles. Although upstream feedstocks such as methanol and acetic acid maintained stable price levels, helping contain production costs, subdued downstream offtake continued to weigh on overall market sentiment.

The global acetic anhydride market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing demand across diverse sectors. While precise market size figures for 2025 aren't provided, a reasonable estimation can be made based on industry trends and reported CAGRs. Assuming a moderate CAGR of 5% (a common growth rate for established chemical markets) and considering a hypothetical 2019 market size of $2 billion (a plausible figure considering the scale of acetic anhydride production), the market size in 2025 could be estimated around $2.6 billion. This projection indicates continued expansion, bolstered by key drivers such as the burgeoning pharmaceutical and textile industries, which rely heavily on acetic anhydride for the production of aspirin, cellulose acetate, and other essential materials. Growth is further fueled by the expansion of the food and beverage sector, particularly in the production of certain flavor compounds and additives. However, fluctuating raw material prices and environmental concerns regarding emissions from acetic anhydride production present significant restraints on market expansion. The market is segmented by production method (acetic acid pyrolysis and acetaldehyde oxidation) and application (chemicals, pharmaceuticals, dyes, spices, and others). Major players like BASF, Celanese, and Eastman Chemical dominate the market, leveraging their technological expertise and established distribution networks. Regional variations in growth rates are expected, with Asia-Pacific projected as a key growth region due to its rapidly developing industrial sector. The forecast period (2025-2033) suggests continued market expansion driven by consistent demand across various end-use applications. The diverse applications of acetic anhydride make it crucial across a broad spectrum of industries. The increasing demand for pharmaceuticals, particularly aspirin and other analgesic compounds, is a significant market driver. Furthermore, the growing use of cellulose acetate in textile manufacturing and in the production of films and filters contributes considerably to the overall market growth. While the market faces constraints like price fluctuations of raw materials and stringent environmental regulations, these challenges are anticipated to be offset by sustained growth in key sectors and advancements in production technologies promoting environmentally friendly manufacturing processes. The competitive landscape is characterized by both established multinational corporations and regional players, leading to a dynamic market environment characterized by continuous innovation and strategic partnerships. This comprehensive report provides a detailed analysis of the global acetic anhydride market, projecting significant growth over the coming years. We delve into production methods, applications, key players, and emerging trends, offering valuable insights for industry stakeholders. Keywords: Acetic Anhydride Market, Acetic Acid Pyrolysis, Acetaldehyde Oxidation, Chemical Industry, Pharmaceutical Industry, Market Size, Market Share, Market Trends, Market Forecast.

The global acetic anhydride market size reached USD 3.9 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 4.9 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 2.45% during 2025-2033. The market is experiencing stable growth driven by the increasing focus on synthesizing numerous drugs and pharmaceutical intermediates, rising demand for numerous processed food products among people with busy lifestyles due to rapid urbanization, and the burgeoning chemical sector.

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the market, along with forecasts at the global, regional, and country levels for 2025-2033. Our report has categorized the market based on end-use.

Acetic Anhydride Market size was valued at USD 2.10 Billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 4.10 Billion By 2030, growing at a CAGR of 4.1% during the forecast period 2024 to 2030.

Global Acetic Anhydride Market Drivers

The market drivers for the Acetic Anhydride Market can be influenced by various factors. These may include:

Chemical Manufacturing: Aspirin, acetaminophen, cellulose acetate, and a variety of tastes and scents are all produced using acetic anhydride, a crucial chemical intermediary. Thus, the need for acetic anhydride is driven by the expansion of companies that depend on these chemicals. Pharmaceutical Industry: The manufacturing of medications like aspirin and acetaminophen requires the use of acetic anhydride, which is extensively consumed by this industry. The need for acetic anhydride is predicted to rise in response to the growing needs for healthcare worldwide and the creation of new medications. Textile Industry: To produce cellulose acetate fibers, which are used in textiles and cigarette filters, acetic anhydride is needed. The need for textiles rises along with the world's population, which supports the expansion of the acetic anhydride industry. Food and Beverage Industry: Food additives, flavorings, and preservatives are made with acetic anhydride. Acetic anhydride is in high demand due to the growing food and beverage industry, shifting customer preferences, and rising demand for these items. Emerging Economies: As a result of these countries' rapid industrialization and urbanization, there is a greater need for chemicals and pharmaceuticals, which in turn raises the demand for acetic anhydride. Environmental restrictions: The market dynamics of acetic anhydride may be impacted by strict environmental restrictions pertaining to the usage of specific chemicals. In order to comply with regulations, innovations in production methods and sustainable practices are probably going to be prioritized, which will have an effect on product development and market growth. Research and Development: By creating new markets and possibilities, continuous research and development initiatives to improve production procedures, improve product quality, and find new uses for acetic anhydride can propel market expansion.

In 2024, after five years of growth, there was decline in the Iranian acetic anhydride market, when its value decreased by -2% to $127K. In general, consumption, however, continues to indicate a relatively flat trend pattern. Over the period under review, the market attained the maximum level at $350K in 2017; however, from 2018 to 2024, consumption remained at a lower figure.

In 2024, the Nepalese acetic anhydride market decreased by -14.4% to $107 for the first time since 2021, thus ending a two-year rising trend. Over the period under review, consumption continues to indicate a relatively flat trend pattern. As a result, consumption reached the peak level of $382. From 2017 to 2024, the growth of the market failed to regain momentum.

Why did the Acetic Acid Price Change in July 2025? The Acetic Acid Price Index in the U.S. held steady near USD 465/MT FOB Texas through June 2025, as stable regional output balanced weak spot demand.

In 2024, the EU acetic anhydride market was finally on the rise to reach $188M for the first time since 2021, thus ending a two-year declining trend. The market value increased at an average annual rate of +1.5% from 2012 to 2024; however, the trend pattern indicated some noticeable fluctuations being recorded in certain years. As a result, consumption reached the peak level of $224M. From 2022 to 2024, the growth of the market remained at a somewhat lower figure.

Asia Pacific Acetic Anhydride Market size is USD 725.01 million in 2024 and will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.0% from 2024 to 2031.

Get the latest insights on price movement and trend analysis of Acetic Acid in different regions across the world (Asia, Europe, North America, Latin America, and the Middle East Africa).

Find detailed analysis in Market Research Intellect's Acetic Anhydride Market Report, estimated at USD 3. 5 billion in 2024 and forecasted to climb to USD 5. 2 billion by 2033, reflecting a CAGR of 5. 2%. Stay informed about adoption trends, evolving technologies, and key market participants.

Access premium Acetic Anhydride Market research reports with comprehensive industry data. Get syndicated analysis on market size, share, and growth trends for decision-makers.