Imported VAM in Kandla

VAM prices in India have fallen due to weak demand and increased inventories. Sluggish activity during October's festive season further strained market sentiment. However, demand is likely to rebound by mid-November, supported by the paints and coatings sector's seasonal boost. Current Price Dynamics of Vinyl Acetate Monomer (VAM)

In the domestic market, VAM prices have witnessed a ₹2/kg increase, now quoted at ₹68/kg ex-Kandla for direct consumers on 60-day payment terms. Importers offer slightly higher rates to traders at ₹68.50/kg ex-Kandla under similar 60-day credit conditions.

In the domestic market, VAM prices have recently decreased by ₹1/kg, now standing at ₹64/kg ex-Kandla for direct consumers with 30-day payment terms. Importers are offering to traders at a slightly higher rate of ₹65/kg ex-Kandla on 30-day credit terms. Bulk deals in the range of ₹62.50-63.00/kg ex-Kandla on 30-day LC terms, coupled with 30 days of storage, have been reported on an MOQ basis.

This week, Ethanol amine prices dropped by nearly 3%, tracking a decline in feedstock Ethanol and Ammonia prices. Importers are offering Mono Ethyl Amine (MEA) at ₹105++/kg Ex-Mumbai (ISO Tank) and ₹123++/kg Ex-Mumbai (Barrel) on advance payment terms. Domestic manufacturers have also reduced their prices, according to a leading trader.

Toluene prices in India have increased by ₹3/kg, driven by a rebound in crude oil and naphtha prices, as well as strong demand from the paints, coatings, and pharmaceutical sectors. Supply constraints, coupled with positive spreads in BTX components, suggest a further potential price hike of $70/MT in the near term. India’s Toluene demand is largely met through imports, with domestic production contributing only 16.8%.

Domestic methanol prices witnessed an increase of ₹1.00/kg as importers adjusted their offers upwards. The updated prices, based on advance payment terms with immediate lifting, are as follows: Ex-Kandla: ₹27.00++, Ex-Mumbai: ₹27.50++.

Phenol prices have softened this week due to increased supply, weak upstream market trends, and bearish sentiment. Domestic production has resumed, ensuring stable supply levels. Seasonal demand recovery from plywood manufacturers is expected to offset current price pressures partially.

The melamine market is experiencing downward pricing trends due to oversupply and reduced demand in downstream industries. New production capacities and restored operations of previously offline facilities are intensifying the supply-demand imbalance. Coupled with declining raw material costs, these factors create a challenging outlook for the market.

Toluene prices in the Indian market saw a downward revision due to weak upstream dynamics, including falling crude oil and naphtha prices. The demand remains subdued but is expected to recover with increased activity in the pharmaceutical and paints industries. Global market trends, such as maintenance at chemical plants in China, are also influencing supply and pricing dynamics.