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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Durakraft Extrusions is expanding its uPVC windows and doors market presence across Tier I, II, and III Indian cities. Driven by demand for energy-efficient, durable solutions, the company strengthens its network and plans new products for the home improvement segment.

Middle East war temporarily revived K-petrochemicals, boosting naphtha prices and inventory gains. Lotte Chemical posted 73.5 billion won operating profit, with LG Chem and Hanwha Solutions also rebounding. Restructuring remains crucial despite the temporary uplift.