East China acetone market sees narrow upward movement

1. Today's Summary

① Sinopec East China's opening price remained stable at 8,500 RMB/ton.
② Phenol-acetone plant operating rates declined, reducing holders' willingness to sell at low prices, which pushed the market center higher.

2. Spot Market Overview

Table 1: Domestic Acetone Price Summary (Unit: RMB/ton)

Based on the Jiangsu region, today's acetone price closed at 8,350 RMB/ton, an increase of 175 RMB/ton from the previous trading day. The East China acetone market rose slightly. Currently, the capacity utilization rate of phenol-acetone units has decreased, weakening holders' willingness to sell at low prices and causing offer centers to rise accordingly. Downstream factories showed moderate interest in inquiries and restocking, with actual transactions mainly driven by rigid demand in small lots, pushing the price center upward.

3. Production Dynamics

Today, the capacity utilization rate of the domestic phenol-acetone industry was 74%. Profits for phenol-acetone enterprises decreased by 50 RMB/ton to -1,495 RMB/ton.

4. Price Forecast

With lower operating rates at phenol-acetone plants, spot supply has contracted. Holders are reluctant to sell, reducing their intent to offer low prices, while negotiation centers remain firm. End-user factories are purchasing based on actual needs, leading to increased transaction volumes. In the short term, the domestic acetone market is expected to fluctuate within a narrow range. Attention should be paid to international crude oil trends.

5. Related Products

Pure Benzene Market: Today, spot negotiations for pure benzene in East China ranged from 10,230 to 10,480 RMB/ton, largely consistent with morning forecasts. International crude oil prices remained high, maintaining cost support and stabilizing market sentiment. Active port deliveries continued to deplete inventories, which remained at low levels. Limited spot circulation resources led holders to resist selling at low prices. However, downstream profits remained under pressure, resulting in strong resistance to high-priced raw materials and limited willingness to chase prices higher.

Bisphenol A (BPA) Market: Based on the East China region, BPA prices closed at 10,750 RMB/ton today, with a range of 10,700–10,800 RMB/ton, a decrease of 50 RMB/ton from the previous trading day, aligning with morning expectations. The domestic BPA market continued its weak downward trend. Although costs rose, the impact on BPA was negligible. Constrained by sluggish demand, holders faced difficulties in sales and were willing to negotiate discounts, leading to lower market prices.

6. Data Calendar

Table 2: Domestic Acetone Data Overview (Unit: 10,000 tons)