NEWS

MCAA Market Review: Prices Consolidate After Pre-Holiday Decline, Demand Poised for Recovery

Summary: In February 2026, the Monochloroacetic Acid (MCAA) market experienced a slight downward shift due to the Spring Festival holiday and fluctuating feedstock costs. Wuxi High Mountain Hi-tech Development Co., Ltd. anticipates the market to maintain a narrow range of consolidation as downstream operations resume and cost pressures persist.

1. Market Overview

From February 1 to February 25, 2026, the MCAA market gravitated downward. Weak demand surrounding the Lunar New Year led to an overall bearish price trend despite a slight increase in monthly averages.

  • Price Dynamics: As of press time, the average monthly price for MCAA was 3,168 RMB/ton, a marginal 0.09% increase from January’s 3,165 RMB/ton. This statistical high is due to the elevated price starting point at the beginning of the month.

  • Operational Logic: The restart of facilities in Jiangsu increased supply early in the month. Lower raw material costs prompted producers in Shandong and Shanxi to reduce quotes. Post-holiday inventory accumulation and the delayed return of downstream factories (mostly after the Lantern Festival) pressured producers to implement minor price reductions.

2. Mainstream Transaction Prices (Flakes)

  • Shandong Region: 3,100-3,200 RMB/ton

  • Henan Region: 3,000-3,100 RMB/ton

  • Shanxi Region: 2,950-3,050 RMB/ton

3. Future Outlook: Balancing Costs and Demand

Strategic Forecast by Wuxi High Mountain:

  1. Cost Support: Prices for the main raw material, Acetic Acid, remain elevated. With Liquid Chlorine prices rising post-holiday, MCAA producers are showing a strong intent to maintain price levels.

  2. Supply Side: Despite new capacities in Jiangsu and Hebei, major producers in Shandong plan to reduce operating rates, suggesting a slight contraction in supply in the short term.

  3. Demand Side: Consumption is expected to enter a growth phase as downstream manufacturers gradually return to full production capacity. Conclusion: We expect MCAA prices to fluctuate within the 3,050-3,150 RMB/ton range next month. If the pace of downstream recovery exceeds expectations, localized price increases may occur.