Japan Acetic Acid Market

Japan Acetic Acid Market Size and Share:

The Japan acetic acid market size was valued at USD 684.9 Million in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 974.8 Million by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.00% from 2025-2033. The Japan acetic acid market share is expanding significantly due to the rising demand for vinyl acetate monomer (VAM) in adhesives, paints, and coatings, alongside growth in food preservation and pharmaceuticals. Leading regions benefit from advanced production technologies, expanding industrial applications, and increased exports of acetic acid derivatives, ensuring sustained market growth.

The market in Japan is majorly driven by the increasing demand from the chemical industry for acetic acid as the main raw material in the manufacture of acetic anhydride, acetate esters, and vinegar. Besides, the expanding use of vinegar in food preservation and flavoring, which has gained momentum from the healthy-eating habits, further propelling the overall Japan acetic acid market trend. For instance, as per an article published on January 25, 2025, the Japanese phenomenon of drinking vinegar before meals is seen to have beneficial and detrimental effects for health. Experts pointed out that vinegar, especially apple cider vinegar, is rich in acetic acid. This helps in digestion due to an increased production of digestive enzymes and stomach acid, thereby boosting nutrient absorption. Acetic acid has also been associated with metabolic enhancement and weight reduction. It is said to accelerate fat oxidation, thereby reducing the storing of fats as well. In addition, escalating demand for acetic acid in the production of plastics and textiles is augmenting the market growth, driven by ongoing industrialization and increasing consumer demand for synthetic materials.

The market is further driven by the growing applications of acetic acid in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries. As a key component in the production of pharmaceuticals and personal care products, Japan acetic acid market demand is increasing significantly. In addition, the increasing utilization of acetic acid in cleaning agents, paints, and coatings, driven by industrial and consumer demand, is propelling the market forward. Besides, the accelerating use of acetic acid in the agriculture industry is contributing to the market growth further. For instance, on January 10, 2024, a research study was published exploring the effects of foliar application of plant growth regulators on the physicochemical properties of 'Shahabi' date fruits. The experiment results showed that treatments with NAA, GA3, kinetin, putrescine, and salicylic acid had significant influences on fruit size, weight, and chemical composition. Specifically, NAA increased the firmness of the fruits and total soluble solids, thereby enhancing fruit quality.

Japan Acetic Acid Market Trends:

Rapid Shift Towards Bio-Based Production

The market is rapidly shifting towards bio-based production. Such bio-based acetic acid derived from renewable resources such as ethanol is increasingly gaining importance with a focus on sustainability. Bio-based acetic acid reduces carbon emission, making it more environment-friendly. The growing focus of the industries on sustainability in alignment with global sustainability goals is influencing the Japan acetic acid market growth positively. For instance, the study published on 17 October 2024 analyzed the use of acetic acid as an eco-friendly solvent for the preparation of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) gels, compared with those prepared using chloroform. Results showed that acetic acid decreased the crystallinity of PHB from 61% to 50.8%, which resulted in an 11% mass loss during enzymatic degradation over 180 days. Additionally, the PHB gels made with acetic acid had a 35% greater storage modulus than those made with chloroform, and their Young's modulus under compression was 101.5 kPa, while that prepared with chloroform was 41.3 kPa.

Escalating Demand in Packaging and Textiles

The market is witnessing growth due to the increasing demand of acetic acid in the packaging and textile industries as a raw material. Acetic acid is an essential raw material in the production of acetate fibers, which are used in textiles. Japan's robust textile industry, coupled with the growing preference for sustainable fabrics, is fostering demand. Notably, as per industry reports published in October 2024, Japan's apparel imports continued to gain in October 2024 as the value improved by 0.84 percent and the weight by 3.47 percent compared to September. According to official data from Japanese customs, the import value of total apparel was put at USD 2.28 Billion in October. In addition, acetic acid is gaining acceptance in biodegradable packaging materials. It will lead to high demands in both areas and contribute toward the Japan Acetic Acid Market Share and be an influencing aspect for the Japan acetic acid market outlook.

Increasing use in Pharmaceuticals and Healthcare

The market is growing by the increasing requirement of the products of the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors, where acetic acid is produced as an API. In line with thus, the active form of aspirin and vaccine storage requires acetic acid, which is acting as a significant growth inducing factor. With Japan's strong position in healthcare innovation, demand for acetic acid in the sector is growing, thereby providing an impetus to the market. The pharmaceutical sector's increasing reliance on acetic acid is positively impacting the Japan acetic acid market share. For instance, A recent study published in January 2025 stated that a novel acetic acid-alginate fluid gel combining antimicrobial features showed enhanced application features for burn wound care. Tested at clinically relevant concentrations of 2.5–5% acetic acid, the gel showed a tenfold increase in spray coverage and extended retention on wound surfaces while retaining its efficacy against pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Japan Acetic Acid Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the Japan acetic acid market, along with forecasts at the country and regional levels from 2025-2033. The market has been categorized based on application and end use.

Analysis by Application:

• VAM
• PTA
• Anhydride
• Ethyl Acetate
• Butyl Acetate
• Others
   

VAM is a very important downstream product in the Japan Acetic Acid market. The acetic acid is used to produce vinyl acetate monomer, which finds applications in adhesives, paints, coatings, and textiles. The growing demand for these products, mainly in construction and automotive sectors, is driving the consumption of VAM. This growth in VAM consumption is thereby adding to the overall growth of the acetic acid market in Japan.

PTA is considered an important derivative in the Japan Acetic Acid market as this is a raw material used during its production processes. PTA is mainly utilized in manufacturing polyester, mainly used in clothing, packaging industries, and various automotive applications. As the market for polyester products is growing positively with the hike in consumption rate in apparel as well as

the packaging industries, the production rates of PTA are also in an upward move, thereby pushing the growth in the outlook in the Japan Acetic Acid market.

Anhydrides, especially acetic anhydride is the most relevant for the market of Japan Acetic Acid due to its higher demand in various chemicals production as in pharmaceutical, dyes and plasticizers production. Acetic anhydride is obtained as a derivative from acetic acid and thus aids in the making of various specialist chemicals. Continual improvements in pharmaceutical industries, along with the expanding automobile and textile sectors, promote demand for anhydrides and, accordingly, for Japan's acetic acid, advancing the growth in and prospects for the market.

Analysis by End Use:

• Plastics and Polymers
• Food and Beverage
• Inks, Paints and Coatings
• Chemicals
• Pharmaceuticals
• Others
   

Plastics and polymers represent one of the most important segments within the Japan Acetic Acid market because of high consumption in various manufacturing activities towards synthetic fibers, films, and plastic products. Acetic acid is one precursor used to synthesize other derivative products, notably acetate which is a reagent for developing polymers. The demand for polymers in various industries, such as automotive and electronics, has increased the demand for acetic acid in Japan, which further cements its role in the plastics industry.

Acetic acid is a very important food additive in the food and beverage industry, especially in food preservation, flavoring, and as a pH regulator. The demand for high-quality and preservative-free food products in Japan has led to the increased use of acetic acid as a food additive. This trend is fostering the Japan Acetic Acid market, especially in the production of vinegar, sauces, and other processed food items, contributing to the overall market expansion.

Inks, paints, and coatings plays in the vital role in the end-use segments in the Japanese Acetic Acid market. A solvent, resin, and additive intermediate, acetic acid is crucial in developing high-quality paint and coating products. Those industries that cater to the world's most automobile, constructional, and consumption goods are huge in Japan; hence, high demand for it is witnessed among the country. As the need for specialized coatings grows, especially in industrial and decorative applications, acetic acid remains fundamental to the inks and coatings sector.

Regional Analysis:

• Kanto Region
• Kansai/Kinki Region
• Central/ Chubu Region
• Kyushu-Okinawa Region
• Tohoku Region
• Chugoku Region
• Hokkaido Region
• Shikoku Region
   

The Kanto Region has a lot of importance in the Japan Acetic Acid Market due to its economic dominance, including housing the country's capital city, Tokyo, and other prominent industrial centers. Its chemical and pharmaceutical industries, the region has many manufacturing sectors in the region that are heavily inclined towards automobiles and textiles. These factors will give a substantial impetus to the market prospects of the region, significantly contributing to the Japan Acetic Acid Market Share and driving the growth opportunities.

The Kansai/Kinki Region is an important contributor to the Japan Acetic Acid Market, primarily due to the presence of its strong chemical production capabilities. Cities such as Osaka and Kyoto host sectors, including electronics, automotive, and pharmaceuticals, each that depend entirely on acetic acid in their production lines. The increasing usage of acetic acid by these sectors improves the growth of the Japan Acetic Acid Market, thereby establishing this region as one of the most profitable within the overall market.

The Central/Chubu Region forms an integral part of the country's acetic acid market in Japan due to its heterogeneous industrial landscape. As an intermediary to produce end-user products such as automobiles and electronic appliances, automobile and electronics segments are huge consumers of acetic acid. Given the growing importance of this region in adding industrial value and augmenting economic activity in the nation, growth opportunities for several industries remain available for the Japan Acetic Acid Market Outlook.

The Kyushu-Okinawa Region, with high manufacturing presence, has a deep impact on the Japan Acetic Acid Market. The chemical production industries in this region, which include synthetic fibers and plastics, create a considerable demand for acetic acid. Furthermore, as Kyushu focuses more on renewable energy and environmental sustainability, the bio-based acetic acid segment is anticipated to grow. This will broaden the scope of the Japan Acetic Acid Market and positively contribute to regional market growth.

The Tohoku Region is very crucial in the Japanese acetic acid market and is contributing from its agricultural and industrial sectors. As a major producer of raw materials, the Tohoku's developing agricultural processing industry is stimulating demand for acetic acid for food preservation and fermentation processes. In addition, the development of renewable energy sources in the region has opened up a greater scope for bio-based production of acetic acid, further boosting the outlook for the Japan Acetic Acid Market Growth.

The Chugoku Region is strategically located and has a strong industrial base, making it a significant contributor to Japan's acetic acid market. The presence of key industries such as automotive, chemicals, and plastics in the region significantly drives acetic acid demand. In addition, growing investments in manufacturing technology and sustainability initiatives are helping to expand the market scope, positively influencing the Japan Acetic Acid Market Growth and contributing to the overall market share.

Hokkaido is one of the strongest agricultural regions in Japan. The acetic acid market has a considerable role to play in this region. Acetic acid is vital for food preservation in the region, especially vinegar production, which is an integral part of the local diet. Furthermore, the growth of agricultural exports in the region and the increase in sustainable agricultural practices enhance the demand for acetic acid, thus fueling the Japan Acetic Acid Market Share and growth opportunities.

The Shikoku Region is part of Japan's acetic acid market, mainly because of its agricultural production and proximity to key manufacturing hubs. The food processing and preservation requirements of the region are driving the demand for acetic acid. The growth in the chemical production industry in Shikoku is increasing the consumption of acetic acid and, therefore, plays a pivotal role in forming the Japan Acetic Acid Market Outlook, thereby propelling steady growth in the long term.

Competitive Landscape:

The acetic acid market in Japan is highly competitive, with several global and local players striving to expand their market share. Companies are focusing on technological advancements, such as the adoption of bio-based acetic acid production processes, to meet the rising demand for sustainable solutions. Additionally, strategic partnerships and collaborations between industry stakeholders are becoming more common, allowing for improved product innovation and broader distribution networks. Furthermore, increasing investments in research and development are fueling the market’s growth, as companies aim to enhance production efficiency and cater to various end-user industries, including chemicals, food, and pharmaceuticals. With such factors in play, the market remains dynamic, with intense competition among participants striving to gain a competitive edge.

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the Japan acetic acid market with detailed profiles of all major companies.

Latest News and Developments:

• On December 6, 2024, Daicel Corporation completed the "Foresting Architecture," a temporary structure on the Expo 2025 Osaka-Kansai site, constructed using their cellulose acetate resin "CAFBLO," a derivative of acetic acid and non-edible plants. The 4.65-meter diameter, 2.95-meter-tall structure was recognized by Guinness World Records on October 25, 2024, as the largest 3D-printed biodegradable building (monolithic).
• On 23 July 2024, Japan-based petrochemical producer Resonac announced it would set up a wholly owned subsidiary, Crasus Chemical to handle its basic petrochemical production, which includes ethylene, propylene, and products derived from acetic acid and synthetic resins. This is aimed at streamlining the business, making performance appraisals better, and improving the speed of decision-making. It is also reported that the Oita ethylene cracker of 618,000 t/yr of Resonac will be transferred to Crasus. Petrochemicals are currently making about 20% of the sales revenues of Resonac.
• On September 18, 2023, KBR announced the acquisition of acetic acid production technology from Showa Denko, a leading Japanese chemical company. This strategic move enhances KBR's portfolio by integrating Showa Denko's proprietary acetic acid technology, known for its efficiency and reliability in industrial applications. The acquisition aligns with KBR's goal to expand its technological offerings and reinforce its position as a leader in the chemicals market.
• On July 17, 2023, Australian, U.S., and Japanese researchers introduced an innovative method to convert atmospheric carbon dioxide into acetic acid, commonly used as vinegar, through an electrochemical process. The process involves combining CO2 and hydrogen with a metal-organic framework (MOF) to stabilize the iron and prevent rusting. The resulting catalyst efficiently produces acetic acid without the need for additional purification. This breakthrough technology presents a sustainable approach to reducing carbon emissions while producing a valuable industrial chemical.

Japan Acetic Acid Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the Japan acetic acid market from 2019-2033.
• The research study provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the Japan acetic acid market.
• Porter's Five Forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the Japan acetic acid industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.