Stearic acid prices rose sharply in China and the United States during Q2 2026 as firm crude palm oil conditions lifted the cost of key feedstocks, according to Procurement Resource. The increases highlight how closely the lubricant and co-stabilizer market tracks the palm-oil complex, with downstream PVC, rubber and plastics buyers remaining cautious even as producer pricing firmed.

In China, stearic acid prices increased to roughly RMB 8.65/kg in April and RMB 9.96/kg in May, a rise of about 15.2%, as higher palm-based feedstock expenses — including palm stearin and palm fatty acid distillate (PFAD), the principal raw materials for stearic acid production — supported producer price adjustments. In the United States, prices climbed from about USD 1,353.63/MT in April to USD 1,591.74/MT in May, a 17.6% increase, while in Germany prices advanced from approximately EUR 1.19/kg to EUR 1.45/kg over the same period on higher imported palm-based oleochemical costs and freight.

Despite the cost push, downstream offtake remained uneven. Cosmetics and personal-care applications provided stability, while rubber processing, PVC stabilisers, plastics and industrial lubricant uses showed cautious buying and inventory discipline, limiting the scope for sharper price escalation. August 2026 assessments show China FOB at USD 1,432.41/MT, USA CFR at USD 1,588.03/MT, Germany CIF at USD 1,546.00/MT and India FOB at USD 1,523.20/MT. Procurement Resource expects prices to remain supported by palm oil market conditions, though subdued downstream demand may cap further gains.