AbstractA new synthetic pathway for the production of p‐toluic acid has been developed starting from reagents derived from renewable resources. A Diels–Alder reaction between sorbic and acrylic acids is followed by a combined dehydrogenation/ decarboxylation process, providing p‐toluic acid in high yields. This route permits to use milder conditions compared to other Diels–Alder approaches reported in the literature, and therefore can contribute to a more sustainable terephthalic acid production.