The Isophthalic Acid Price Trend increased significantly across major international markets in Q2 2026 due to higher raw material costs, supply disruptions, rising transportation expenses, and geopolitical uncertainty. The conflict between Iran and Israel created concerns about crude oil and petrochemical supplies, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz.
These developments increased the costs of naphtha, benzene, and meta-xylene, which are important raw materials used in isophthalic acid production. As a result, Isophthalic Acid Prices increased in South Korea, Taiwan, Japan, China, India, the USA, Brazil, and other major markets.
However, prices started moving in different directions during June as production recovered, raw material availability improved, and buyers became more careful with their purchasing decisions.
The second quarter of 2026 was a period of significant price movement for the isophthalic acid market. Producers faced higher manufacturing expenses, while buyers had to manage rising procurement costs and uncertain delivery schedules. Changes in crude oil prices affected the wider petrochemical industry, increasing the cost of several materials required for isophthalic acid production.
Freight rates and marine insurance expenses also increased because of uncertainty surrounding international shipping routes. These additional costs affected international trade and made imported material more expensive for buyers in several regions.
Production conditions further influenced the market. Maintenance shutdowns, lower operating rates, and limited feedstock availability reduced supply flexibility in some countries. Producers adjusted their selling offers to account for higher manufacturing expenses and changing availability.
At the same time, demand from coatings, PET resins, unsaturated polyester resins, construction materials, automotive components, and packaging applications continued to support market activity. These industries use isophthalic acid in products that require specific chemical and performance properties.
However, higher prices encouraged some buyers to delay fresh purchases and use existing inventories. This change in buying behaviour became more visible toward the end of the quarter, when improved supply conditions helped prices decline in several markets.
South Korea recorded a 40% increase in isophthalic acid prices in Q2 2026 compared with the previous quarter. Higher crude oil, naphtha, benzene, and meta-xylene costs contributed to this increase. Uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz also raised concerns about transportation expenses and petrochemical supply chains.
Production conditions added further pressure to the market. Lotte Chemical's temporary Yeosu shutdown reduced regional availability, while concerns about benzene and xylene supply made it more difficult for buyers to predict future costs.
Demand from coatings, PET resins, unsaturated polyester resins, and construction applications remained supportive. These industries continued to require raw materials for their regular manufacturing activities, helping maintain firm market conditions.
However, the market experienced a correction in June 2026. Isophthalic Acid Prices decreased by 8% compared with May as production resumed, feedstock availability improved, and suppliers became better positioned to meet demand. Buyers also reduced purchases after building inventories during the earlier period of rising prices.
This movement showed how improved production and lower immediate purchasing requirements can reduce price pressure even after a strong quarterly increase.
Taiwan recorded a 46% increase in isophthalic acid prices in Q2 2026 compared with Q1, making it the second-highest quarterly increase among the markets covered in this article.
Higher crude oil and naphtha costs increased the expenses associated with petrochemical production. The conflict between Iran and Israel and concerns about shipping through the Strait of Hormuz also contributed to higher freight, energy, and insurance costs.
Formosa Petrochemical announced force majeure on certain petrochemical supplies and operated crackers at lower rates, creating additional uncertainty around regional feedstock availability. These developments contributed to higher production costs and firmer export offers.
Demand from coatings, polyester resins, PET modification, and unsaturated polyester applications continued to support purchasing activity. Manufacturers required consistent raw material supplies to maintain production, despite the higher prices.