Imported Melamine in Mundra

The melamine market is witnessing stable prices, with slight fluctuations in the Asian benchmark. Oversupply persists due to increased production capacity, while weak downstream demand, impacted by the real estate slowdown, limits significant price changes. Adjustments in supply and potential policy shifts in real estate may influence future demand recovery.

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.

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.