Imported Styrene Monomer in Kandla

Styrene Monomer prices showed minimal fluctuations due to weak buying trends. Rising benzene costs have increased production expenses, squeezing profit margins. Demand remains sluggish, particularly in EPS and 3S sectors. Meanwhile, supply remains stable despite maintenance activities. Market expectations indicate continued price consolidation, influenced by crude oil trends and benzene movements.

Polystyrene prices increased in January, driven by strong export demand, restocking, and higher benzene costs. Prices later stabilized despite fluctuations in feedstock ethylene and styrene. Supply tightened due to reduced imports and limited production expansions. While cost pressures persist, steady demand from packaging and construction supports a stable market outlook.

The styrene market shows mixed trends, balancing adequate supply and moderate demand. Prices rose marginally in China to 8,550 Yuan/MT. Imported styrene at Kandla is priced at ₹95.5/kg. Despite seasonal stocking, increasing inventories weigh on market momentum. Near-term fluctuations are expected, influenced by supply pressures and cautious demand recovery.

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.