Chemicals & Polymers

Niacinamide prices dropped by ₹100/kg this week due to weak export demand and slow domestic consumption. Seasonal demand fluctuations and financial year-end closures further impacted trading activity. However, supply remains stable, supported by Jubilant Ingrevia’s expanded production capacity in Gujarat. With India’s Niacinamide demand growing at 6.9% CAGR, market dynamics are expected to shift.

PVC K67 prices in India remain stable at ₹68,500–69,500/MT across top brands. The market continues to rely heavily on imports amid pending anti-dumping duty (ADD) decisions. Market uncertainty persists, with ADD ruling likely to impact cost structure ahead.

Mixed Xylene (MX) prices dropped by ₹3/kg due to reduced replacement costs and weak downstream demand ahead of fiscal year-end. Despite healthy supply levels, demand from sectors like paints and coatings has slowed. However, seasonal demand is expected to rebound in April, potentially supporting prices.

PET resin prices in India have softened due to global oversupply, weak raw material costs, and sluggish downstream demand. New production capacity, high inventory levels, and low order flow continue to weigh on the market. Experts foresee limited upside in the near term without a significant rebound in demand.

Sodium Methoxide prices have decreased by ₹1 per kg amid a slowdown in biodiesel production and fiscal year-end lulls. The supply remains stable, but unfavorable economics challenge manufacturers. Industry experts suggest a cautious approach due to fluctuating market conditions.

ABS prices remain stable across various locations, with LOTTE's SD-0150 (Black) priced at ₹158,000/MT. Domestic ABS demand in China is rising ahead of the Spring Festival despite a slight decrease in production rates. ABS market stability is expected, with ongoing interest from household appliance sectors.

Toluene prices dropped by ₹5/kg amid bearish sentiment and declining benzene contracts. Despite stable supply, year-end inventory caution dampened demand. The naphtha-to-toluene spread fell below breakeven, while favorable benzene spreads offered some relief. Seasonal demand from paints and coatings may support prices post-March, though overall market outlook remains cautious.

Polypropylene prices in India remain varied across regions, with rates ranging from ₹96,000 to ₹1,03,000/MT. Globally, the U.S. PP market faces pressure from a surge in low-cost imports from China and Vietnam. Ongoing plant shutdowns and antidumping investigations are expected to impact global supply chains and influence short-term pricing.

IPA prices have declined sharply amid high port inventories and sluggish downstream demand. Importers are facing liquidation pressure, while domestic producers maintain stable prices. Bulk buyers seek lower rates for April. With reduced consumption from pharma manufacturers and ongoing financial year-end stock adjustments, bearish market sentiment is expected to persist.