Chemicals News Today

Syensqo plans to introduce EO-based solutions using Shell's lower-carbon feedstocks, cutting product carbon footprint by up to 51 per cent via a mass-balance approach with...

Asian petrochemical producers face shutdowns and force majeures due to naphtha shortages from Strait of Hormuz disruptions. Prices hit record highs, with naphtha at $918/tonne (up 88% YTD) and refining margins at a four-year high of $173/tonne.

India met peak power demand, ensuring stable fuel supplies despite West Asia tensions. Thermal plants run at full capacity with adequate coal. Power demand rose 8%, with 22,000 MW capacity addition planned. LPG/fuel supplies are stable.

India doubled 5kg LPG cylinder supply from April 7 for migrants, simplifying access. Over 8.9 lakh units distributed, with 1.1 lakh on April 7, boosting affordable cooking fuel access nationwide.

Market sources indicate that traditional benchmarks like Platts are lagging amid current volatility, with traders advised to track China futures and company positions for real-time decisions. Meanwhile, polypropylene (PP) price protection has been announced from April 8–22, 2026, alongside an incentive of ₹2,000/MT on non-contractual domestic and export sales, supporting short-term market sentiment.

India increased fertilizer subsidy rates for nitrogen, phosphate, and sulfur nutrients for the current Kharif crop season. This move comes in response to a price surge caused by the Middle East war.

Equistar Chemicals announced revised Polyethylene price increases for April and May 2026, effective from April 10, 2026. This is a key update for the petrochemical market.

The Petrochemicals Market is projected to grow from USD 669.19B (2025) to USD 1,149.8B (2033) at a 7% CAGR, driven by packaging and manufacturing demand. The industry is evolving with sustainability and innovation.

The India Pharma Expo 2026, from April 23-25 at Hyderabad's HITEX, will unite the pharma ecosystem. Focusing on India's global role in drug manufacturing and life sciences, it features industry leaders and policymakers to drive growth and innovation.

Feedstock prices show mixed trends on April 10, 2026. Naphtha stable at $1145, Propylene down in USA/Europe, Ethylene mixed, Styrene up in Asia, PTA up $20, MEG stable.