Terephthalic acid price December 2025 and outlook (see chart below)
- North America:US$1.01/KG, unchanged
- Europe:US$0.78/KG, unchanged
- Northeast Asia:US$0.66/KG, 3.1% up
- Southeast Asia:US$0.7/KG, unchanged
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Terephthalic acid (TPA) price index
This post is a summary of the Terephthalic acid price developments. The price developments of Terephthalic acid (TPA)are expressed in US$ prices converted FX rates applicable at the time when the price was valid. Terephthalic acid price index developments are calculated from multiple separate sources of data to ensure statistical accuracy.
The outlook for Terephthalic acid prices, on the second tab, is generated from different inputs including:
- Very recent price developments of immediate cost drivers of Terephthalic acid prices
- Recent price developments of underlying feedstocks which drive the price of Terephthalic acid
- Market futures for both cost drives and feedstocks of TPA prices
- Adjustment of current supply/demand imbalances in the Terephthalic acid market
- Longer term trends in likely demand conditions
Further information on the Terephthalic acid price index
What is Terephthalic acid (TPA)
Terephthalic acid, also known as 1,4-benzenedicarboxylic acid, is a white, crystalline solid that is used in the production of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a common polymer used in the manufacture of plastic bottles, textiles, and other products. Terephthalic acid is produced by the catalytic oxidation of p-xylene, a byproduct of the petroleum refining process. It is also used as a starting material in the production of other chemicals, such as resins and dyes. Terephthalic acid is a strong acid, with a pKa of 1.88, and it is soluble in water and many organic solvents. It is classified as a hazardous chemical and should be handled with caution.
How is Terephthalic acid produced
Terephthalic acid is produced by the catalytic oxidation of p-xylene, which is a byproduct of the petroleum refining process. The most common method of producing terephthalic acid is through the air oxidation of p-xylene, which involves the use of a cobalt or manganese-based catalyst. The reaction is typically carried out in a fixed-bed reactor at high temperatures and pressures, and the terephthalic acid is then purified and recovered through a series of distillation and crystallization steps.
Other methods of producing terephthalic acid include the use of zeolites as catalysts, as well as the use of enzymes or microorganisms to carry out the oxidation reaction. In recent years, research has been ongoing to develop more environmentally friendly and sustainable methods for the production of terephthalic acid and other chemicals.
What is Terephthalic acid used for
Terephthalic acid is primarily used in the production of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a common polymer that is used in the manufacture of plastic bottles, textiles, and other products. PET is a strong, lightweight material that is resistant to moisture, chemicals, and UV light, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of applications.
In addition to its use in the production of PET, terephthalic acid is also used as a starting material in the production of other chemicals, such as resins, dyes, and pharmaceuticals. It is also used in the production of certain types of plastics, such as polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) and polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), which are used in applications such as automotive parts, electrical components, and sporting goods. Terephthalic acid is also used in the production of coatings, adhesives, and other industrial products.
Further reading
- Wikipedia for general, history, production and usage information
- PubChem for chemistry and property information
Terephthalic acid market information
The global market for terephthalic acid is large and growing, driven by increasing demand for PET and other products made from terephthalic acid-based polymers. According to data from industry research firm Grand View Research, the global terephthalic acid market was valued at around $14.5 billion in 2020 and is expected to reach a value of $20.7 billion by 2027, at a compound annual growth rate of 5.3% over the forecast period.
The Asia Pacific region is the largest market for terephthalic acid, accounting for more than half of global demand. China is the largest market in the region and is also the world’s largest producer of terephthalic acid. Other major markets for terephthalic acid include Europe, North America, and the Middle East and Africa.
According to https://oec.world/ :
Terephthalic acid, its salts are the world’s 706th most traded product.
In 2020, the top exporters of Terephthalic acid, its salts were South Korea ($942M), Belgium ($514M), Chinese Taipei ($479M), Thailand ($417M), and China ($389M).
In 2020, the top importers of Terephthalic acid, its salts were Turkey ($619M), United States ($414M), Vietnam ($373M), Germany ($327M), and Lithuania ($300M).