Chemicals News Today

Methanol prices in India witnessed a sharp correction during June, with Ex-Kandla prices falling over 30% month-on-month. Improving prospects for Middle East supply, progress in US-Iran peace negotiations, and expectations of normal shipping through the Strait of Hormuz have eased supply concerns, while weak buying sentiment continues to pressure prices.

GNFC has increased Acetic Acid prices by ₹3/kg, effective June 25, 2026. Tanker price is now ₹57/kg, and Carboys ₹72.50/kg, reflecting strengthening market fundamentals for new bookings.

Deepak Chemtech has restarted its 40 KTPA Methyl Isobutyl Ketone (MIBK) plant, now at full capacity. This boosts domestic MIBK availability and supports downstream industries.

Carbofuran, a highly toxic pesticide banned in 63 countries including the US and EU, remains largely allowed in India despite government documents acknowledging its risks to bees, birds, and humans, raising food security concerns.

U.S. plastic exports, particularly from Texas, to China, exceeding $23 billion in 2025, are intensifying global pollution concerns. With only 5-6% of plastics recycled, the trade links U.S. energy to global waste problems.

The EU imposed anti-dumping duties on BDO imports from China (105.6-113.7%), Saudi Arabia (52.4%), and the US (135.7-142.5%) due to unfairly low prices. This protects EU producers in Germany, Netherlands, Italy, affecting €140M imports.

Vietnam's Vinachem strengthened trade with South Africa, signing an MoU with CAIA to boost chemical, fertiliser, and rubber exports. Vinachem, generating over US$2.5 billion, plans a regional office, seeking raw materials and joint ventures.

South Korea's petrochemical industry faces a severe glut due to Chinese overcapacity and new regional supply. Margins collapsed to $55/ton, far below break-even. Unfinished capacity cuts and S-Oil's 1.8M-ton Shaheen project nearing completion worsen the outlook.

Advanta bioKEMIX and Resolkem formed a JV, Resolkem Private Limited, to establish India's first dedicated high-quality GCHS-grade solvent manufacturer. This strategic partnership aims to boost India's specialty chemicals sector and expand production capacity by Q4 2026.

On June 25, battery-grade nickel sulphate prices declined. Nickel prices plunged sharply due to rate hike fears and quota rumors, cutting production costs. Supply remained tight, but subdued demand led to low acceptance of nickel salt prices.