Chemicals News Today

Styrene prices in India held steady at ₹96–97/kg as Asian benchmarks rebounded on firmer benzene and renewed post-holiday buying. Global supply remains adequate, but restocking has tightened the near-term range. India’s full import dependence keeps domestic pricing closely aligned with international feedstock and freight movements.

Cosmo Speciality Chemicals launched CosmoWhite (premium white masterbatches with TiO₂) and CosmoAdd (additive masterbatches for enhanced processing/durability), expanding its specialty chemicals portfolio. This reinforces its position in value-added polymer solutions.

India’s Morepen Laboratories has secured a $91 million contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) agreement, marking the largest mandate in the company’s history and strengthening its global presence in the pharmaceutical outsourcing space. The deal is expected to enhance Morepen’s manufacturing scale and reinforce its positioning in regulated international markets. Meanwhile, Himadri has commissioned a new specialty carbon black production line at its Mahistikry facility, expanding overall capacity. The additional output is aimed at catering to demand from plastics, inks, paints, and coatings segments, supporting the company’s strategic focus on value-added specialty materials.

Lotte Chemical will permanently close its 1.1 million mt/y Daesan cracker as South Korea begins ethylene rationalization. This three-year restructuring, approved by the Ministry, involves merging Lotte's cracker operations with HD Hyundai Chemical.

Versalis's loss narrowed due to restructure benefits, despite lower margins and volumes. The European chemicals sector remains depressed, facing macro-headwinds, high input costs, and oversupply, impacting competitiveness.

Alujain Corp. (Saudi Arabia) and Beaulieu International Group NV (Belgium) signed an MoU on Feb. 26 for a joint venture in Saudi Arabia to produce synthetic fibers and nonwovens, focusing on expansion.

European Nylon 6 extended gains, while US Nylon 6 and 66 held steady at 99 cents/lb and 147 cents/lb respectively. EVA buying interest rose in Europe due to tighter supply outlook for March volumes.

Propylene prices rose in China to USD 835-845/mt, up USD 5/mt, due to strong demand. Korea's prices remained stable at USD 785-795/mt amid muted buying sentiment.

TDB supports Carbon Craft Design to commercialize ultra-low carbon geopolymer wall claddings. This initiative uses recycled quartz waste, eliminates energy-intensive kiln firing, and boosts green manufacturing, aligning with India's sustainable growth and climate goals.

India's chemical industry, projected to exceed $300 billion by 2025, urgently needs to adopt green chemistry. This shift, inspired by Western initiatives, is crucial for low-carbon, circular manufacturing, clean energy, and pharmaceuticals.