US Formic Acid Prices Stay Firm on Methanol Cost Surge and Import Dependence

US Formic Acid Prices Stay Firm on Methanol Cost Surge and Import Dependence

Ian Fleming 29-Apr-2026

During the second half of April 2026, the U.S. Formic Acid market maintained a firm and structurally supported upward trajectory, driven primarily by persistent methanol feedstock inflation and a structurally import-dependent supply framework. Rising methanol costs in the Gulf Coast significantly increased production economics, reinforcing a sustained cost-push environment across the value chain and limiting any downside pricing flexibility. With nearly two-thirds of domestic consumption met through imports, the market remained highly sensitive to global freight rates, marine insurance premiums, and international feedstock volatility, which further elevated landed cost structures. On the supply side, stable carbon monoxide and syngas availability, unchanged tariff conditions, and steady energy inputs ensured operational continuity; however, these factors were insufficient to offset upstream cost pressures, while inventory levels remained lean with no significant build-up reported. Demand conditions remained steady across agrochemical, leather processing, rubber coagulation, and industrial applications, with consumption largely necessity-driven and supported by seasonal agricultural requirements. Overall, the market remained tight and cost-driven, with sustained upstream inflation and import reliance continuing to anchor Formic Acid prices at elevated levels throughout the period.

Selenis has effectively manufactured recycled PET chips using terephthalic acid sourced from Circ®, a textile-to-textile recycler based in Virginia. The chip production took place through a series of batches at Selenis' pilot plant in San-Giorgio, Italy. By utilizing inputs recovered from polycotton textile waste, Selenis has created high-quality PET chip, which has been further processed into DTY yarn. This yarn will play a crucial role in product development as Circ prepares for additional capsule launches. Selenis is leveraging the success of this initial collaboration phase and is committed to advancing towards an offtake partnership to support Circ's inaugural industrial facility. Eduardo Santos, Head of Corporate Strategy at Selenis, remarked that the monomer synthesis showed a performance comparable to virgin terephthalic acid. He expressed optimism about the consistent quality of Circ's monomer output and anticipated future commercial success. Santos pointed out that the Circ partnership complements Selenis's existing mission and goals for a more sustainable textile industry. He further stated their anticipation of expanding upon this collaboration and providing support for Circ's forthcoming commercial production trials.

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