Imported IPA Price (COMMERCIAL) in Kandla

IPA prices in India corrected to ₹80–84/kg amid oversupply from imports and weak sentiment linked to softer propylene and acetone values. Demand remains concentrated in pharmaceuticals and personal care, together forming half of consumption. Market outlook stays bearish short term, but recovery is expected as bulk drug output strengthens.

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.

Acetone prices have risen by ₹2/kg to ₹70/kg due to reduced phenol production, while isopropyl alcohol (IPA) prices fell slightly to ₹93/kg amidst adequate inventory. Demand for both chemicals is recovering, driven by the paints and bulk drugs sectors.

Toluene prices softened to ₹67–68/kg amid weak paint and coating demand and oversupply, tracking a 3% drop in crude oil. Imports dominate India’s 57,000 MT monthly need, while pharma demand may lend near-term support. Market direction hinges on crude trends and post-monsoon recovery in downstream sectors.

Ethyl acetate markets showed mixed trends as acetic acid softened domestically but firmed in China. Ethanol prices surged on higher blending mandates, while methanol declined. Strong downstream demand and GST cuts for polymers are expected to boost momentum. Rising exports may create domestic shortages, keeping the outlook volatile yet firm.

Acetone prices in India firmed to ₹60/kg amid stable supply and subdued demand. Imports matched domestic offers, while Asian benchmarks continued downward corrections. Feedstock costs declined, supporting production. Demand from bulk drugs remains weak, but personal care, adhesives, and inks are expected to drive recovery post-monsoon.

Methanol markets across Asia remained muted this week. India stood out as the strongest netback market, with sanctions on Iranian cargoes tightening availability and keeping prices firm near ₹30/kg despite cautious demand during a festive lull. Non-sanctioned sellers are largely sold out for September, leaving October offers pending, while global production shortfalls and diverted cargoes continue to shape regional trade flows.

Domestic toluene prices rose by ₹1/kg amid thin festive trading and limited supply. Demand from pharma, paints, and coatings stayed weak due to monsoon disruptions. Imports are expected to ease tightness later in August. Refinery margins remain pressured, while Asian benzene futures signal bearish sentiment, keeping the medium-term outlook cautious.

Curcumin prices surged 8–9% this week on supply disruptions from heavy monsoons and firm demand from pharma and nutraceuticals. Regulatory shifts, including the U.S. crackdown on artificial dyes, are driving global adoption of Curcumin E100. With tight feedstock availability and bullish fundamentals, buyers are advised to secure inventories early.