Chemicals News Today

India launched the world's first nuclear heat-based hydrogen production facility in Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu. Using the indigenous Cu-Cl thermochemical process, it marks a pioneering breakthrough for large-scale, carbon-free hydrogen production, boosting clean energy and decarbonization goals.

Hyderabad's biologics plant received seven USFDA observations during a June 16-25 inspection, following five in 2025. The company will address the Form 483 findings, underscoring compliance importance in India's pharma hub.

Anti-dumping duties on PAN are critical. Non-implementation costs India's chemical industry INR 11,938 crore annually, risking INR 2,100 crore investments and self-sufficiency, despite negligible downstream price impact.

India lifted commercial LPG restrictions, restoring supplies for businesses amid US-Iran peace talks. Bulk supplies are at 50% of pre-crisis levels, providing relief. Domestic LPG costs Rs 942, commercial Rs 3,113.5.

TA Research downgraded PetChem to 'sell', cutting target price to RM4.32 from RM6.56. Reopening of Strait of Hormuz removes a key catalyst, weakening earnings from 2027 due to oversupply.

China exported record amounts of chemicals from March to May, leveraging huge inventories built over years, despite falling production. This explains a massive wartime export boost.

Commercial LPG cylinder sales are restored to pre-war levels, with bulk supplies raised to 50% due to improved availability. This offers relief to commercial and industrial users, reversing earlier curbs and C3/C4 stream diversions.

India's MNRE pushes local manufacturing of critical solar and green hydrogen components, including polysilicon and electrolyzer parts, to reduce import reliance. This upstream shift involves high capex but aims for self-reliance.

India's polyester industry seeks PTA/MEG duty relief extension until Sept 30, 2026, due to geopolitical issues and rising costs (from ₹82 to ₹106/kg). This aims to protect competitiveness and prevent further cost hikes for manufacturers and exporters.

Methanol prices in India witnessed a sharp correction during June, with Ex-Kandla prices falling over 30% month-on-month. Improving prospects for Middle East supply, progress in US-Iran peace negotiations, and expectations of normal shipping through the Strait of Hormuz have eased supply concerns, while weak buying sentiment continues to pressure prices.