Chemicals News Today

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.

February naphtha buying in Asia remained active despite some buyer hesitation due to limited derivative demand. Meanwhile, gasoline cracks hit a four-month low, reflecting market shifts.

India's petrochemical consumption is projected to grow 6-7% annually. Capacity expansion, especially for polypropylene (1.8x by FY30), aims to reduce import dependence. Profitability hinges on cost competitiveness amid global oversupply and import pressures.

IFFCO launched 'Dharamrut' seaweed extract, enriched with amino and alginic acids, at a conference with 2,000 farmers. This natural botanical product promotes sustainable agriculture, enhancing crop vigour, soil health, and nutrient efficiency.

Iran's Tabriz Petrochemical Company reported product exports exceeding 30 trillion rials during the first nine months of the current Iranian year. The company, located in East Azerbaijan province, revealed these figures.