Deepak Phenolics IPA (LR GRADE) in Dahej

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 dropped ₹2/kg this week, reflecting weak demand and falling replacement costs. Import offers range between ₹64.50–66/kg, while spot costs have dipped to ₹57–58/kg. Demand remains subdued, especially from pharma and coatings sectors. Experts anticipate a recovery only if crude oil strengthens and seasonal demand improves.

Mono Chloro Acetic Acid (MCAA) prices increased ₹0.5/kg across key markets following a sharp increase in Acetic Acid costs. While producers revised rates upward, trading offers also moved higher. Supply remains steady with strong downstream demand from agrochemicals, pharma, and surfactants. Market players expect stable prices ahead, though falling Acetic Acid costs and weaker global sentiment could soften the outlook.

Methanol import offers in India have moved up by ₹1/kg amid slight improvement in buying interest, though trader sentiment remains mixed due to bearish signals from international markets. With steady domestic supply and incoming Iranian cargoes, buyers are proceeding cautiously. Weak downstream demand continues to weigh on pricing, especially in the amines, MTBE, and acetic acid sectors.

Acetic Acid prices have surged due to supply tightness driven by GNFC’s shutdown, delayed imports, and low port inventories. Importers and traders have raised prices, with downstream sectors like Ethyl Acetate reacting with immediate hikes. Continued demand growth and limited supply are expected to keep prices firm and volatile in April.

MIBK prices in India declined amid subdued demand, high port inventories, and falling replacement costs. Offers are now INR 116–119/kg depending on payment terms. While demand remains weak in bulk drug and rubber sectors, stable offtake in paints and coatings provides limited support. Deepak Phenolics’ entry may shift future supply trends.

Indian methanol import prices have softened by ₹2/kg amid the arrival of low-priced Iranian cargoes. Domestic prices are down ₹4/kg week-on-week. While supply remains stable, subdued downstream demand and bearish global cues are driving cautious buying behavior. Short-term volatility is expected as buyers await further price corrections.

Acetone prices increased by ₹1/kg amid tight supply, limited port inventories, and strong demand from paints and coatings. Despite bullish sentiment, downstream correction in feedstock costs may create scope for price adjustments in the near term.