Chemicals News Today

Jordan's chemical and cosmetics sector exports to 112 countries, with India leading at 28%. Exports grew 9% to JD 1.448 billion in nine months, showing 76% growth over five years. The sector has $2.2 billion in untapped opportunities.

From Jan 1, 2026, cars and electronics will see 2-10% price hikes. CNG, LPG, and ATF prices are expected to fall. Government salaries will rise with the 8th Pay Commission, alongside new banking and tax rules.

Commercial LPG cylinders costlier by Rs 111 from Jan 1, 2026. Delhi now Rs 1,691.50, Mumbai Rs 1,642.50. Domestic LPG unchanged. ATF prices reduced from Rs 864.35 to Rs 791.48, offering airline relief.

Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) has increased domestic polypropylene (PP) prices by ₹1,000/MT, effective January 1, 2026. Deemed export prices remain unchanged.

US Butyl Acetate prices remained stable in late December 2025 due to balanced supply/demand. Year-end slowdowns and macroeconomic uncertainties led to fewer orders, while stable feedstock and energy costs maintained producer margins.

According to market sources and price forecasts, polymer prices are expected to move marginally higher in the near term. Effective 1st January, domestic HDPE, LLDPE, and PP prices are likely to see an increase of around ₹1/kg, while PVC prices may rise by ₹1–2/kg, supported by firm sentiment and tightening supply conditions. Additionally, market talk suggests a possible ₹2/kg increase in PET prices in the coming days.

Indian polymer prices are set to increase from January 1st. HDPE, LLDPE, and PP are expected to rise by ₹1/kg, while PVC may see a ₹1–2/kg hike, driven by firm market sentiment and tightening supply.

South China, China's third-largest PO producer, currently has 1.06 million t/y capacity. An additional 1.60 million t/y PO capacity is projected for 2026-2028, with downstream expansion following.

Petrochemicals are set to benefit from amendments to EU ETS state aid guidelines. This is due to their classification as energy-intensive industries facing increased carbon leakage risk from higher emission costs.

Global electricity demand and China's LPG import shifts signal a 2026 return to 'drill baby, drill' politics. Governments prioritize energy security and domestic production over climate rhetoric to prevent blackouts and economic stalls.