Chemicals & Polymers

Global polyethylene (PE) prices remained largely stable through mid-October 2025, with Asian markets showing marginal declines and U.S. prices holding steady. Supply remained sufficient despite limited demand recovery. Higher crude oil costs offered some support, but overall market sentiment stayed cautious amid weak downstream activity and moderate import interest.

Domestic Acetic Acid prices in India strengthened through October 2025, driven by firm methanol feedstock costs and cautious downstream demand. While global methanol prices softened under tariff pressure, domestic supply remained stable. Post-festive demand recovery from pharmaceutical and packaging sectors is expected to support prices into early November.

European PVC prices softened amid weak demand and sufficient supply, while China reported a modest rise in imports reflecting gradual recovery. Feedstock trends remained mixed, with ethylene declining and EDC/VCM firming slightly. The market is expected to stay range-bound with limited volatility and stable-to-soft sentiment across regions.

Polyethylene and Polypropylene prices softened in early October amid weak downstream demand, high inventories, and muted buying in Asia. While crude oil strength offered limited cost support, both domestic and imported prices trended lower. Market sentiment remains cautious, with limited restocking expected until post-Diwali demand recovery.

Acetic Acid prices in India continued their downward trend amid weak methanol feedstock and cautious downstream demand. Despite international prices firming slightly on Chinese restocking, domestic sentiment remains subdued. Stable supply, potential post-monsoon VAM demand, and gradual recovery in pharmaceuticals could support market stabilization through October.

Domestic MDC prices dropped ₹1–2/kg due to weak pharma demand, while volatile methanol feedstock costs, driven by oversupply in China and U.S. sanctions on Iran, added uncertainty. Global crude softness further weighed on sentiment. With steady production but sluggish consumption, MDC prices are expected to stay mixed in the near term.

Indian PET prices steadied at ₹88/kg by late September, while China PET bottle chip prices rebounded slightly to 5,900 RMB/ton after early-month weakness. Oversupply and weak downstream demand keep market activity muted. Falling crude oil and PTA costs weigh on margins, limiting the scope for a sustained price recovery.

Polypropylene (PP) prices in India remained flat at the end of September despite seasonal demand pickup. Abundant supply, steady-to-soft upstream costs, and cautious downstream buying continue to weigh on the market. While certain grades see stable retail prices, the overall market remains under pressure with limited bullish triggers.

Indian methanol prices held firm near ₹31/kg despite a festive lull, driven by strong formaldehyde demand and curtailed Iranian imports. Chinese CFR prices softened on oversupply, but Indian buyers continue active procurement. Futures show near-term tightness, while crude and gas trends add to overall market caution.