Chemicals News Today

Acetic acid prices in India and Asia remained under pressure due to rising China supply, weak downstream demand, and continuous import inflows. India ex-tank prices softened to ₹45–47.5/kg, while Asian benchmarks declined across regions. Market sentiment stayed bearish despite regional plant outages and operational adjustments supporting limited supply balance.

India will supply 80,000 tonnes of fertiliser (60,000 urea, 20,000 DAP) to Nepal by mid-August. This G2G deal, part of a 2022 MoU, addresses shortages for the upcoming paddy season.

China's Dishwashing Liquid market forecasts 6-8% value CAGR (2026-2030), driven by premiumization and eco-segments. Volume grows 3-5%. Despite raw material costs and shelf saturation, opportunities exist in refills and specialized products.

India avoided petrol/diesel price hikes for four years despite global energy crises, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri stated. This was achieved through strategic planning, 50% LPG production boost, and alternative fuel expansion, ensuring affordable, uninterrupted supply.

Renewable methanol capacity to reach 61M tonnes by 2031, but fuel sector dominates investment. Chemical sector's absence risks single-use infrastructure, hindering multi-use potential. Integrated demand is crucial for financeability.

India targets higher ethanol blends (E25, E85, E100) for energy sovereignty, aiming to cut its ₹22 lakh crore oil import bill. With 1,800 crore litres production, policy alignment is vital to maximize ₹1.70 lakh crore forex savings and farmer benefits.

Oil Minister Puri confirmed no lockdown plans, despite PM Modi's fuel conservation appeal. LPG production increased from 35,000 to 54,000 tonnes/day. Modi urged conservation to save foreign exchange amid West Asia conflict.

Europe's chemicals sector sees a brief reprieve and slight positive momentum since March, as Middle East conflicts disrupt Asian rivals' supply chains. However, executives warn this relief is short-lived, with no sustained recovery expected.

SECI issued a draft RfS for 0.5 mn t/annum Green Methanol production. Bidders can quote 50,000-250,000 t/annum for a 10-year agreement, requiring Rs 5,000/t EMD and Rs 7,500/t PBG.

A sharp bitumen cost spike has delayed Delhi PWD road repairs. Contractors paused work, causing commuter frustration. Officials review contracts, seeking price adjustments to resume critical maintenance and address budgetary pressures.