Chemicals News Today

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 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.

GNFC has increased Acetic Acid prices by ₹3/kg, effective June 25, 2026. Tanker price is now ₹57/kg, and Carboys ₹72.50/kg, reflecting strengthening market fundamentals for new bookings.

Deepak Chemtech has restarted its 40 KTPA Methyl Isobutyl Ketone (MIBK) plant, now at full capacity. This boosts domestic MIBK availability and supports downstream industries.

Carbofuran, a highly toxic pesticide banned in 63 countries including the US and EU, remains largely allowed in India despite government documents acknowledging its risks to bees, birds, and humans, raising food security concerns.

U.S. plastic exports, particularly from Texas, to China, exceeding $23 billion in 2025, are intensifying global pollution concerns. With only 5-6% of plastics recycled, the trade links U.S. energy to global waste problems.

The EU imposed anti-dumping duties on BDO imports from China (105.6-113.7%), Saudi Arabia (52.4%), and the US (135.7-142.5%) due to unfairly low prices. This protects EU producers in Germany, Netherlands, Italy, affecting €140M imports.

Vietnam's Vinachem strengthened trade with South Africa, signing an MoU with CAIA to boost chemical, fertiliser, and rubber exports. Vinachem, generating over US$2.5 billion, plans a regional office, seeking raw materials and joint ventures.

South Korea's petrochemical industry faces a severe glut due to Chinese overcapacity and new regional supply. Margins collapsed to $55/ton, far below break-even. Unfinished capacity cuts and S-Oil's 1.8M-ton Shaheen project nearing completion worsen the outlook.