Daily Market Report

Despite weak downstream demand, domestic toluene prices in India rose ₹2/kg this week, tracking a sharp global crude oil rally. While pharma demand offers some support, monsoon-led slowdowns continue to affect paints, coatings, and packaging segments. Rising crude prices and tight refinery margins could drive further price volatility.

Acetic Acid prices in India dropped 12% amid weak downstream demand, monsoon disruptions, and cheaper Chinese imports. International prices also declined, with spot deals as low as ₹28/kg. While demand from Acetonitrile and dye sectors offers limited support, overall sentiment remains bearish, with further price corrections likely in the short term.

Primary TMT prices dropped again across major regions amid continued weak demand. Sellers are offering deeper discounts, while distributors maintain adequate inventory. Despite the subdued market, Vizag-based SEIL made headlines by acquiring an Andhra Premier League franchise, blending steel with sport to boost brand visibility. Experts caution that more price cuts may follow unless demand picks up.

PET prices dropped last week due to weak raw material costs and sluggish demand, despite a slight price hike by Wankai. Leading Chinese producers have begun output cuts, but high inventories persist. Exports rose in May, though global competitiveness is under pressure from higher freight rates and US anti-dumping tariffs.

Brent crude has softened to $82.34/barrel on recession fears, but disciplined OPEC+ output keeps the downside in check. In India, bitumen prices continue to rise, especially at Kandla, amid tight import supply and strong restocking demand. Market sentiment remains bullish due to ongoing monsoon disruption and limited PSU allocations.

Acetone prices fell by ₹3/kg amid improved domestic production, steady import arrivals, and sluggish downstream demand. Paints, IPA, and DAA segments remain weak, while upcoming pharma sector demand could provide limited support. With bearish feedstock trends and rising availability, prices are expected to stay soft in the short term.

PVC prices saw a marginal rise in early July, supported by export demand and energy market trends. However, subdued domestic consumption, rising inventory, and limited downstream activity are capping major gains. While supply remains high due to increased plant operations, the market is expected to stay stable with slight upward potential.

In early July 2025, demand for DI and ERW pipes remains weak due to monsoon disruptions and sluggish project activity. Manufacturers are offering bulk discounts amid inventory pressure. However, a demand rebound is expected post-monsoon. Strategic buying and stock planning during this low-price window could benefit both buyers and suppliers.

Stainless steel prices remain steady across grades, with 300 series showing flat demand and 200 series witnessing strength due to limited imports. ISSDA reports 8% consumption growth in FY25, signaling robust market fundamentals. Scrap prices remain stable, while end-user sectors continue to influence grade-wise performance amid evolving supply trends.

Toluene prices fell ₹2/kg amid weak demand from paints and coatings sectors and improved domestic supply. Stabilizing Middle East tensions and rising US crude inventories have further weighed on sentiment. Although pharma-related demand offers limited support, refining margins remain under pressure. A price recovery appears unlikely in the short term.

Flat steel prices remain unchanged across key Indian markets despite subdued demand due to seasonal factors. Distributors report a lull in HRC and CRC movement, but expectations are bullish for the second half of 2025. Meanwhile, POSCO has frozen stainless steel prices to counter rising imports and stabilize its domestic market.

Crude oil prices dipped marginally as global sentiment remains cautious. However, demand from petrochemicals is poised to become the largest growth segment for oil through 2030, driven by rising use of plastics and synthetic materials. China and the US lead in feedstock capacity, shaping trade flows and refining economics.