GNFC Ethyl Acetate in Bharuch

The domestic acetyl market turned bullish in the second half of December 2024, driven by strong downstream demand and a surge in export activities. Accordd Organics Pvt Ltd, a leading acetyl manufacturer in India, has priced Ethyl Acetate at ₹68++ per kg ex-Ahmednagar on advance payment terms.

Escalating conflict between Iran and Israel has significantly impacted domestic market dynamics today, leading to heightened market uncertainty. Shipments of methanol and toluene from Iran have been put on hold, triggering strong reactions within the market. As Iran is a key supplier, especially to China, which relies heavily on Iranian methanol for acetic acid production, supply disruptions are expected to challenge downstream sectors, including ethyl acetate and acetic anhydride, now under increased scrutiny and speculation.

Methylene dichloride (MDC) prices in India have decreased by ₹3/kg this week due to sluggish demand from the API sector and higher inventory levels. Price reductions have been noted across various regions, with authorized dealers offering lower prices in southern India. Increased production capacity from TGV SRAAC and Sreyas has contributed to the price decline. Price volatility is expected in the near term.

N Butyl Acetate prices rose by ₹1/kg, driven by increased purchasing activity in the paints and coatings industry and constrained supply. Domestic and import prices now stand at ₹88++ per kg. While global benchmarks show mixed trends, strong seasonal demand and limited inventories are expected to sustain price momentum.

The styrene market shows mixed trends, balancing adequate supply and moderate demand. Prices rose marginally in China to 8,550 Yuan/MT. Imported styrene at Kandla is priced at ₹95.5/kg. Despite seasonal stocking, increasing inventories weigh on market momentum. Near-term fluctuations are expected, influenced by supply pressures and cautious demand recovery.

Toluene prices have slightly declined, reflecting bearish market sentiment and subdued demand in key industries like paints and coatings. While domestic production remains stable, imports continue to meet the majority of demand. Global crude oil and feedstock price fluctuations, coupled with plant turnarounds in Southeast Asia, are influencing market dynamics.

Vinyl Acetate Monomer (VAM) prices in India rose by ₹2/kg due to higher feedstock costs and robust downstream demand. Supply constraints from limited shipments and INEOS's plant shutdown added upward pressure. Domestic VAM production resumed, reducing some import dependency. Seasonal growth in paints, coatings, and adhesives boosted market sentiment.

Acetic Acid prices surged to ₹40.50/kg as GNFC raised prices amid higher Methanol costs and robust downstream demand. Limited vessel availability and plant shutdowns are tightening supply, while growing demand from Acetyl product expansions drives bullish market sentiment. Importers and manufacturers brace for potential further increases, intensifying market volatility.

Methanol prices have risen by ₹0.25/kg following a surge in futures contracts and natural gas prices. Asian CFR futures climbed $6/MT as potential sanctions on Russian and Iranian supplies spark concern. In India, bulk consumption is rising despite production constraints, and traders are actively building inventories anticipating further price increases.