Chemicals News Today

The Indian Ethyl Acetate market is undergoing a period of structural repricing, moving away from historical lows toward a new, higher baseline. This shift is primarily fueled by a dramatic rise in upstream feedstock costs—specifically Acetic Acid and Ethanol—forcing major domestic producers like GNFC to implement significant price revisions. While supply remains stable, the market is characterized by "tight equilibrium" as the Pharmaceutical and Coatings industries continue to pull steady volumes.

Taiwan faces a plastic packaging shortage due to Middle East shipping disruptions, causing Formosa Petrochemical and Plastics to cut production. Costco imposed purchase limits until April 2. The government is stabilizing supply, promoting reusable bags, and inspecting for illegal stockpiling.

Bengaluru faces an LPG crisis, disrupting auto-rickshaw services with long queues and reduced operations. This impacts driver income and commuter travel, highlighting urban transport's vulnerability to energy supply issues and the need for diversification.

India's condom industry faces rising costs and potential shortages due to petrochemical supply disruptions. Silicone oil scarcity, 40-50% ammonia price hikes, and packaging costs threaten production of 400 crore condoms annually, potentially increasing prices and impacting public health.

Kolkata pools face closure due to a global shortage of water-treatment chemicals, allegedly linked to the Iran conflict. Operators struggle to source disinfectants, causing temporary skin color changes and potential price doubling.

Vice Minister Moon urged petrochemical firms to prioritize domestic supply, securing naphtha with a 469.5 billion KRW budget amid global disruptions. Government will manage essential products and monitor supply chains, also asking citizens to reduce consumption.

Asian Paints WoodTech's 'Into the Grain' Episode 3 unveils Rasa, a home where light, spatial flow, and wood converge. It showcases wood as an expressive element, protected by WoodTech Aquadur, creating serene, timeless spaces.

BITS Pilani scientists developed a method to convert industrial smoke into Dimethyl Ether (DME), a clean fuel. This innovation can supplement LPG, reduce emissions, and strengthen India's energy security. India approves up to 20% DME blend with LPG.

OMCs face ₹40,484 crore LPG losses by May-end, incurring ₹380 under-recovery per cylinder to shield households from surging global prices. Commercial LPG prices hiked due to West Asia crisis, while domestic rates remain unchanged at ₹913.

A US-Iran war, starting February 2026, has caused petrochemical prices to soar, straining global supply chains. This conflict also impacts semiconductor costs, with Formosa Plastics Group reporting a rising net loss in 2025.