Daily Market Report

Acetic Acid prices in India continued their downward trend amid weak methanol feedstock and cautious downstream demand. Despite international prices firming slightly on Chinese restocking, domestic sentiment remains subdued. Stable supply, potential post-monsoon VAM demand, and gradual recovery in pharmaceuticals could support market stabilization through October.

Domestic MDC prices dropped ₹1–2/kg due to weak pharma demand, while volatile methanol feedstock costs, driven by oversupply in China and U.S. sanctions on Iran, added uncertainty. Global crude softness further weighed on sentiment. With steady production but sluggish consumption, MDC prices are expected to stay mixed in the near term.

Indian methanol prices held firm near ₹31/kg despite a festive lull, driven by strong formaldehyde demand and curtailed Iranian imports. Chinese CFR prices softened on oversupply, but Indian buyers continue active procurement. Futures show near-term tightness, while crude and gas trends add to overall market caution.

Toluene prices softened to ₹67–68/kg amid weak paint and coating demand and oversupply, tracking a 3% drop in crude oil. Imports dominate India’s 57,000 MT monthly need, while pharma demand may lend near-term support. Market direction hinges on crude trends and post-monsoon recovery in downstream sectors.

Ethyl acetate markets showed mixed trends as acetic acid softened domestically but firmed in China. Ethanol prices surged on higher blending mandates, while methanol declined. Strong downstream demand and GST cuts for polymers are expected to boost momentum. Rising exports may create domestic shortages, keeping the outlook volatile yet firm.

IPA prices in India corrected to ₹80–84/kg amid oversupply from imports and weak sentiment linked to softer propylene and acetone values. Demand remains concentrated in pharmaceuticals and personal care, together forming half of consumption. Market outlook stays bearish short term, but recovery is expected as bulk drug output strengthens.

Acetone prices in India firmed to ₹60/kg amid stable supply and subdued demand. Imports matched domestic offers, while Asian benchmarks continued downward corrections. Feedstock costs declined, supporting production. Demand from bulk drugs remains weak, but personal care, adhesives, and inks are expected to drive recovery post-monsoon.

Methanol markets across Asia remained muted this week. India stood out as the strongest netback market, with sanctions on Iranian cargoes tightening availability and keeping prices firm near ₹30/kg despite cautious demand during a festive lull. Non-sanctioned sellers are largely sold out for September, leaving October offers pending, while global production shortfalls and diverted cargoes continue to shape regional trade flows.

Domestic toluene prices rose by ₹1/kg amid thin festive trading and limited supply. Demand from pharma, paints, and coatings stayed weak due to monsoon disruptions. Imports are expected to ease tightness later in August. Refinery margins remain pressured, while Asian benzene futures signal bearish sentiment, keeping the medium-term outlook cautious.

Curcumin prices surged 8–9% this week on supply disruptions from heavy monsoons and firm demand from pharma and nutraceuticals. Regulatory shifts, including the U.S. crackdown on artificial dyes, are driving global adoption of Curcumin E100. With tight feedstock availability and bullish fundamentals, buyers are advised to secure inventories early.

Indian Acetic Acid prices remain stable despite downstream price adjustments and feedstock concerns. Methanol supply risks from U.S. sanctions on Iranian exporters could tighten availability and push costs higher. Post-monsoon demand from VAM and pharma segments may support prices, making this a good window for strategic inventory building.

Indian MDC prices jumped ₹4.50/kg in a week, supported by surging methanol feedstock costs after U.S. sanctions on Iranian-origin imports. Supply in the West is tight, while the South operates at full capacity. Despite weak downstream demand, prices are likely to remain bullish due to persistent feedstock shortages and sanctions risk.