Imported MEK in Kandla

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.

MEK prices in India dropped due to weak market sentiment and financial year-end sluggishness. While short-term prices remain under pressure, demand from printing inks and packaging sectors may support recovery post-March 2025.

Toluene prices in the domestic Indian market saw a downward revision of ₹1/kg, as importers adjusted rates amid falling crude benchmarks and sluggish downstream demand. Bulk deals from importers were quoted at ₹64.50++ per kg (ex-Kandla) and ₹65.50++ per kg (ex-Mumbai) for 60-day payment terms. Meanwhile, trader offers were reported at ₹66++ per kg (ex-Mumbai) and ₹65.75++ per kg (ex-Kandla) under similar credit terms.

FOB China Acetic Acid surged $20 to $340/MT amid restocking triggered by rising COVID cases. However, Indian prices fell ₹1–1.5/kg due to weak demand and ongoing shutdowns at major plants. Inventory tightness and pharma sector demand could trigger a sharp rebound. Traders are actively building stocks ahead of June.

Diketene derivatives like EAA and MAA held steady as rising feedstock costs and strong downstream demand supported prices. Pharma and seasonal agrochemical demand kept offtake buoyant. Ethyl acetate surged 4% amid tight supply, while methanol and sodium methoxide stayed firm. Prices are expected to remain bullish through May 2025.

Acetic Acid prices in India rose by ₹2/kg amid concerns over vessel delays and tight supply. Importers and traders are holding back large-volume offers, anticipating further escalation. Despite subdued demand from Ethyl Acetate and Acetic Anhydride producers, strong offtake from bulk drugs and MCAA sectors is supporting bullish sentiment. Market eyes further price rebound.

Ethyl Acetate prices in India increased sharply amid escalating feedstock costs, limited raw material availability, and upcoming production shutdowns. Key producers raised offers by ₹1–2/kg. With Acetic Acid and Ethanol prices surging and logistics costs climbing, market participants expect further price gains. Demand from downstream industries remains robust, supporting bullish sentiment.

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.