Chemicals & Polymers

Indian Acetic Acid prices remain stable despite downstream price adjustments and feedstock concerns. Methanol supply risks from U.S. sanctions on Iranian exporters could tighten availability and push costs higher. Post-monsoon demand from VAM and pharma segments may support prices, making this a good window for strategic inventory building.

China’s PVC spot market saw minimal weekly movement, with early gains erased by week’s end. Prices remain range-bound as supply stays stable and demand weakens. Soft dealer offers, low inquiries, and volatile crude oil cap upside potential. Short-term outlook suggests continued narrow fluctuations without strong upward momentum.

Indian MDC prices jumped ₹4.50/kg in a week, supported by surging methanol feedstock costs after U.S. sanctions on Iranian-origin imports. Supply in the West is tight, while the South operates at full capacity. Despite weak downstream demand, prices are likely to remain bullish due to persistent feedstock shortages and sanctions risk.

PVC prices in India remain stable to slightly weak on muted downstream demand, while China sees firm prices supported by exports and futures sentiment. High plant operating rates are boosting supply in China, though sluggish domestic consumption limits upside. Global sentiment leans cautiously optimistic for August.

Acetic Acid prices increased marginally despite global softness, driven by a weak rupee and aggressive procurement from key Indian buyers. Domestic supply remains ample, but pharma sector demand is subdued. Seasonal uptick from other sectors and ADD impact on Acetonitrile may offer short-term support. Market outlook remains volatile.

PE prices remained largely stable in July, with minor declines across LLDPE, LDPE, and HDPE. Demand stayed weak due to off-season consumption and cautious procurement. Supply increased as plants resumed operations. While sentiment improved slightly on policy support, strong price gains remain unlikely without a demand recovery.

Acetone prices declined ₹2/kg this week due to weak downstream demand and rising imports. Domestic supply remains stable, but the pharma and coatings sectors saw reduced offtake. Global feedstock trends and OPEC’s crude output hike added bearish pressure. Market sentiment remains weak, with buyers advised to limit inventory.

PP prices remain under pressure amid weak demand and abundant supply. Domestic rates vary across India, with MRPL's lamination grade reaching ₹1,00,000/MT. China’s PP prices dropped 2.06% since early July. Limited cost support and upcoming capacity additions in H2 2025 are likely to keep the market rangebound and volatile.

ABS prices declined in China and remained range-bound in India amid weak demand and elevated inventories. Domestic supply is ample due to higher plant operations and restarts. Feedstock costs like acrylonitrile and styrene remain weak. With no clear upward triggers, ABS prices are expected to stay under pressure in the near term.