April 16 — Major alumina manufacturers in Shandong have reduced the procurement price of 32% ion-exchange membrane caustic soda by RMB 5 per ton, effective April 16, setting the ex-factory price at RMB 655 per ton.

Chempricehub Analysis of Caustic Soda: Bull-Bear Score: -1

The reduction of RMB 5 per ton in the procurement price of 32% ion-exchange membrane caustic soda by major alumina manufacturers in Shandong, bringing it to RMB 655 per ton, reflects weak demand or ample supply, exerting direct downward pressure on spot prices. Combined with recent data on caustic soda futures (e.g., the settlement price of the 2607 contract at RMB 2,085 per ton, down RMB 16), the spot price reduction may intensify bearish sentiment in the futures market, leading to further pressure on the price of the main contract. The score is mildly bearish (-1), as the reduction is relatively small (approximately 0.76%), but the signal is clear and may trigger short-term selling.