Chemicals News Today

India plans a $4 billion coal-to-chemicals push, aiming to process 75 million tons by 2030, mirroring China. This seeks energy/food security but faces tech hurdles and raises global CO2 concerns, extending coal's demand.

Methanol markets softened across Asia as spot enquiries declined after aggressive April buying. China export arbitrage remained open, while India demand for June cargoes weakened amid expected arrivals and geopolitical uncertainty. Domestic India inventories tightened temporarily, supporting ex-tank prices. Weak China downstream sentiment, fluctuating futures, and soft freight discussions continued limiting aggressive procurement activity regionally.

Deputy CM Bhatti Vikramarka sought Centre's support for Singareni's expansion, including coal gasification, Koyyagudem Block-III allocation, and Tadicherla Block-III lease. Union Minister Kishan Reddy responded positively, assuring a joint meeting.

Telangana Deputy CM discussed Singareni's future, coal gasification, new coal blocks (Koyagudem Block-III), and Tadicherla Block-II mining lease with Union Minister Kishan Reddy. Minister assured a joint meeting for these crucial energy security and industrial needs.

Telangana Dy CM met Union Minister Kishan Reddy to discuss Singareni's future, coal gasification, and new coal block allocations. Requests for Koyagudem Block-III and Tadicherla Block-II mining were positively received, with a joint meeting assured.

India's core sector growth quickened to 1.7% in April 2026, up from 1.2% in March, marking six consecutive months of expansion. Cement, electricity, and steel production boosted growth, while coal, crude oil, natural gas, and fertilisers remained weak.

Japan faces a naphtha supply crisis, impacting plastics, packaging, and medical supplies due to Middle East tensions. Over 90% crude oil import dependency fuels panic buying and inflation, posing a significant economic risk.

Walplast Products reported robust yearly growth across its HomeSure portfolio, with Admixtures up 110%, Block Jointing Mortar 72%, and Walbond 67%. This reflects strong market confidence and strategic investments, strengthening its presence across 23+ countries.

ICAR recommends ammonium sulphate (21% N, 24% S) as a urea alternative for paddy, citing domestic production and dual nutrients. This addresses India's fertilizer import issues, despite its lower nitrogen density and soil acidity risks.

OEKO-TEX ECO PASSPORT marks a decade of safer chemistry, certifying over 65,000 products across 50+ countries. Lab data highlights dye challenges but low PFAS, driving transparency and compliance, especially in key markets like India and China.