Imported LAB in Mumbai

Toluene prices in India have surged ₹3/kg, driven by geopolitical tensions, rising crude oil, and naphtha prices. Importers are holding firm on higher offers despite tepid buyer response. Refinery margins are under severe pressure, pushing expectations of a price rebound. Downstream demand from pharma and coatings sectors shows gradual recovery.

Acetic Acid prices softened in India despite tight port inventories, driven by weak demand and lower replacement costs. While some bullishness is expected from downstream sectors, ongoing plant turnarounds and geopolitical risks continue to pressure the market. Strategic inventory building is advised amid anticipated supply disruptions and price volatility.

Toluene prices dropped by ₹1/kg this week due to weak sentiment and lower replacement costs. Despite soft liquidation, downstream demand—especially from pharma and coatings—is recovering. While margins remain under pressure, rising crude oil and demand may support price rebound. Importers remain cautious amid fluctuating market signals.

Domestic methanol prices dropped ₹0.50/kg amid healthy market activity and steady supply. Strong liquidation in Kandla and stable demand from formaldehyde and bulk drug sectors supported near-term stability. However, softening Asian futures and incoming Iranian cargoes signal a possible correction by mid-May 2025.

Ethyl Acetate prices have surged up to ₹4/kg due to rising feedstock costs, production constraints, and higher freight rates. Manufacturers are cautious about large-volume deals amid supply uncertainties and a major shutdown. Substitution from Acetone is increasing demand. Price volatility is expected to persist through June 2025.

Acetone prices in India have increased by ₹2/kg due to tight supply, strong paint sector demand, and low port inventories. Domestic output remains constrained while downstream sectors like pharmaceuticals and diacetone alcohol rebound. Traders expect further price hikes, while producers are cautious amid low conversion margins and limited vessel arrivals.

MEK import prices in India dropped by ₹3/kg to ₹88.50/kg (Ex-Kandla, 30-day credit), driven by weak downstream demand and ample inventories. Domestic Cetex prices stand at ₹90–92/kg (Ex-Chennai). Market sentiment remains cautious, though steady demand from printing inks and packaging sectors may stabilize prices post-April.

Accordd Organics has hiked Ethyl Acetate prices by ₹1/kg to ₹70++/kg (Ex-Ahmednagar), amid a 6% rise in Acetic Acid costs and feedstock shortages caused by GNFC’s maintenance and import delays. With traders withholding offers and freight rates surging, the market faces ongoing volatility through Q2 2025.

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.