The market center of gravity for octanol has risen.

I. Daily Summary

1. Spot transaction prices for 2-EH (2-ethylhexanol) in Shandong ranged from RMB 9,750 to 9,800 per ton, with low-priced shipments selling smoothly.
2. Today, the operating rate of domestic 2-EH plants was 73%; downstream DOP (dioctyl phthalate) plant operating rates were at 59%, and DOTP (dioctyl terephthalate) plant operating rates were at 63%.
3. Feedstock propylene prices continued to rise, exerting significant cost pressure on 2-EH production.

II. Spot Market Overview

Table 1: Price Summary of Domestic 2-EH and Major Downstream Products (Unit: RMB/ton)

Today, the ex-factory price of 2-EH in Shandong was RMB 9,775/ton, while transactions in the Jiangsu market closed at RMB 9,925/ton. The center of gravity for the domestic 2-EH market shifted upward today, primarily driven by rising feedstock propylene prices. With low spot inventory levels across manufacturers towards the end of the month, quoted prices were adjusted upwards. The pass-through of higher 2-EH prices to downstream sectors was relatively smooth, maintaining a decent trading atmosphere. End-of-month buying activity was mainly focused on rigid demand procurement.

III. Production Dynamics

Today, the capacity utilization rate of domestic 2-EH plants stood at approximately 73%. Propylene prices in Shandong rose to RMB 11,000/ton. The listed contract price for 2-EH in Shandong was RMB 9,800/ton, resulting in a profit margin of RMB 30/ton for Shandong-based producers.

IV. Price Forecast

Currently, 2-EH faces significant cost pressure. Low-end priced material is selling smoothly, and downstream spot inventories remain low at the end of the month, sustaining rigid demand for 2-EH. It is expected that low-end market prices for 2-EH will follow the upward trend tomorrow.

V. Related Product Updates

Today, prices for feedstocks 2-EH and phthalic anhydride rose, pushing up costs in the DOP market. Driven by this factor, opening prices in the DOP market showed an upward trend. Coupled with a secondary price increase in related product DOTP, trading conditions in the DOP market improved moderately, with end-users engaging in some rigid-demand purchases.

VI. Data Calendar

Table 2: Domestic 2-EH Data Overview (Units: 10,000 tons, RMB/ton)