Global 2-EHA market remained volatile during the first half of March 2025. Positive momentum prevailed in the Western market, influenced by the price hikes for 2-EHA and its key raw material 2-EH by a key manufacturer notably OQ Chemicals. However, the Asian 2-EHA market showcased looming market with the prices remaining stable to soft owing to sufficient inventories amidst heathy production rates.

The price of European 2-EHA has experienced a significant increase during the review period. The price of essential feedstock 2-EH was also increasing during the same period, prompting increased production costs thus exerting upward pressure on 2-EHA pricing. Further, various surveys conducted have reported slight shortage of material within the North American market amidst shortage of essential raw material 2-EH. In addition, significant industry participants, including OQ Chemicals, a well-known worldwide leader in oxo products, have responded to this advantageous market situation by raising the price of 2-EHA on the international market as of April 1.  In the upcoming month, it is anticipated that this calculated action will further solidify the rising trajectory of 2-EHA pricing.  Meanwhile, the demand remained consistent during this period, particularly from the prominent end-user automotive market with no new bids or enquiries observed.

In contrast to this bullish trend in the west, the Asian 2-EHA market exhibited relative stability with a slight bearish inclination. The prices remained stable during the initial week, however, plunged later. This price decline is primarily attributed to sufficient inventory availability, which successfully eased the prices in the Asian market against global cost pressures. Steady manufacturing activity of major 2-EHA manufacturers in the Asian market including KH Neochem in Japan ensured a consistent supply influx to meet end-user demand, preventing any significant price volatility. Further, joint venture between BASF and Petronas which inaugurated its second production line for 2-ethylhexanoic acid (2-EHA) at the integrated site in Kuantan, Malaysia in late 2024 has continued to operate in a healthy manner.  This enhanced production efficiency and ensuring a stable supply chain, this move is expected to reinforce market stability in the region while supporting downstream industries reliant on 2-EHA. Meanwhile, demand continued to showcase growth

According to ChemAnalyst's analysis, the price of 2-EHA is anticipated to stay unstable in the days ahead due to frequent price increases by significant manufacturers in the global market.  Additionally, it is anticipated that demand from the significant downstream automotive sector would rebound in the following days, suggesting a possible change in 2-EHA prices.