Chemicals News Today

Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East are causing high volatility in the PP market. Despite this, open-market PP prices are expected to ease next week due to cautious buyers and subdued demand, with crude oil movements being a key factor.

Geopolitical conflict is redefining global chemical industry feedstock competition. Resilience to volatility and supply-chain disruptions, rather than just cost, now determines competitiveness. Feedstock security is a strategic priority, notably during China's 15th Five-Year Plan.

On Monday, stronger upstream energy rates pushed SM prices higher in Asia. Price gains were further driven by a rise in upstream benzene feedstock values across Asia. FOB Korea SM prices were assessed at USD 1195-1205/mt levels, up USD (+20/mt) from last Friday's assessed levels. CFR China SM prices were assessed at USD 1180-1190/mt levels, an increase of USD (+20/mt) from previously assessed levels. Meanwhile, FOB Korea benzene feedstock prices were assessed at USD 990-1000/mt levels, higher by USD (+20/mt) from last Friday.

From Jan-Apr 2026, China exported 676,000 tonnes of PVC to India, 39.7% of its total. India was the largest destination, followed by Vietnam (140,000 tonnes) and Indonesia (94,000 tonnes).

Phenol prices in India remained stable during Q2 2026, supported by higher benzene feedstock values and elevated energy costs. However, weak demand from BPA, construction, automotive, and caprolactam sectors continues to limit price recovery. Buyers remain cautious, keeping the market largely demand-driven rather than cost-driven.

New Indian rules require caustic soda plants to ensure 90% fish survival in wastewater after 96 hours. Standards also limit water use, wastewater generation, and pollutants, affecting 32-37 plants. Enforcement capacity is a concern.

Coromandel International and Samunnati Foundation partnered to enhance sustainable agriculture in India. This collaboration aims to improve farm productivity, soil health, and adopt advanced technologies for climate-resilient farming, benefiting many farmers.

India promotes 46,000-crore coal gasification for 4 lakh crore investment, 1 lakh jobs, cutting imports. 60,000 crore saved from reduced coal imports. Critical mineral blocks secured.

China's April 2026 chloroacetic acid imports hit 180.1 tonnes (+95.3% MoM), exports 5,706.6 tonnes (+28.3% MoM). Jan-Apr cumulative imports were 448.4 tonnes (-28.9% YoY), exports 17,480.4 tonnes (-17.6% YoY).

India's clean industry pipeline grew 30% in six months, now third globally with 65 projects across 11 states, representing a $433.07 billion investment. Green ammonia leads, reflecting a shift from ambition to delivery in low-carbon manufacturing.