Chemicals News Today

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.

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).

Feedstock prices on June 9, 2026, show mixed trends. Naphtha rose to $840, while Propylene and Ethylene saw declines in some regions. Styrene, PTA ($945), and MEG ($630) prices mostly increased.

China Bazaar Futures on June 9, 2026: PP opened lower at 8898 RMB/MT, LLDPE lower at 8050 RMB/MT. PVC opened higher at 4751 RMB/MT.

The CCI has approved the restructuring of UPL group companies, involving UPL, UPL SAS, UPL Two, and others. This reorganisation transfers India and global crop protection businesses to UPL Two, a wholly owned subsidiary, streamlining operations.

Indonesia recommended five-year anti-dumping duties on PP homopolymer imports from China, Saudi Arabia, and others, effective June 2, 2026. This threatens China's PP exports and causes market restructuring challenges.

Middle East conflict transforms China's PP market from oversupply to a 1.40 million tonnes deficit by 2026, marking the first shortfall in years due to disrupted feedstock supply and geopolitical tensions.

South Korean companies achieved profit turnarounds, driven by improved spreads and cost efficiency. This positive shift occurred despite sluggish revenue growth and persistent market volatility.