Imported Toluene in Kandla

Toluene prices increased by ₹1/kg today due to rising crude oil and naphtha costs. Importers’ offers stood at ₹78.00++ per kg (ex-Kandla) and ₹78.50++ per kg (ex-Mumbai). Demand is recovering in the packaging, paints, and coatings sectors, but remains weak for bulk drugs. Experts predict a bullish market trend, with geopolitical tensions and seasonal demand shaping price movements in the coming weeks.

Toluene prices have slightly declined, reflecting bearish market sentiment and subdued demand in key industries like paints and coatings. While domestic production remains stable, imports continue to meet the majority of demand. Global crude oil and feedstock price fluctuations, coupled with plant turnarounds in Southeast Asia, are influencing market dynamics.

Toluene prices have fallen by Rs 2/kg due to decreased FOB Korea Benzene futures. The supply-demand situation remains balanced, with seasonal recovery expected in January, driven by growth in the paints, coatings, and bulk drug manufacturing industries. Experts predict volatility in toluene prices in the coming weeks but expect short-term price stability due to increased demand in key sectors.

Escalating conflict between Iran and Israel has significantly impacted domestic market dynamics today, leading to heightened market uncertainty. Shipments of methanol and toluene from Iran have been put on hold, triggering strong reactions within the market. As Iran is a key supplier, especially to China, which relies heavily on Iranian methanol for acetic acid production, supply disruptions are expected to challenge downstream sectors, including ethyl acetate and acetic anhydride, now under increased scrutiny and speculation.

Domestic hydrogen peroxide prices fell by ₹1/kg due to weak downstream demand and increased production. Key industries like textiles and pharmaceuticals continue to show sluggish demand. With ample supply and cautious buyer sentiment, prices are expected to remain under pressure, with further corrections likely in the near term.

Phenol prices have dropped by ₹2-3/kg due to increased imports, despite strong seasonal demand from plywood manufacturers. Ample supply and liquidation pressure keep the market bearish. Rising feedstock costs may push production expenses higher. Experts predict short-term price softness but suggest monitoring for potential rebounds due to upstream cost pressures.

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.

Ethyl Acetate prices in India have risen by ₹0.5/kg, driven by higher ethanol and feedstock costs. Reduced production rates and increasing demand from paints and packaging are adding upward pressure. With Acetic Acid prices volatile and bulk buyers securing inventories, market conditions remain tight, signaling further price hikes ahead.

N-Butyl Acetate prices have been revised upwards by importers, rising by ₹1/kg to ₹87++ per kg ex-Kandla on 60-day credit terms. Accord Organics, a key domestic producer, has also increased its base price by ₹1/kg, now offering at ₹87.00++ per kg ex-Ahmednagar on advance payment terms.