Tight supply fails to offset constrained demand, leaving premmellitene prices struggling to maintain strength

Introduction: Domestic operating rates for durene (1,2,4,5-tetramethylbenzene) units remain at low levels, resulting in tight spot supply. However, downstream procurement of raw materials for pyromellitic dianhydride (PMDA) and terminal polyimide (PI) films remains driven by rigid demand. Producers are cautious regarding production activities and prudent in their procurement of durene. Consequently, amid the supply-demand tug-of-war, upward price momentum for durene is weak, and market sentiment leans toward wait-and-see.

I. Durene Operating Rates Remain Low at 25.7%

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According to Chempricehub, the domestic spot supply of industrial C10 crude aromatics—particularly fractions suitable for durene production—remains tight. Yangzi Petrochemical’s reforming units are operating at low loads, while Anqing Petrochemical is undergoing full plant maintenance. Additionally, the durene content in externally available industrial C10 crude aromatics is low. As a result, the operating rate of domestic durene units utilizing the C10 process stands at 25.7%, with weekly external sales volumes totaling approximately 630 tons. Meanwhile, Shaanxi Huahaoxuan has no plans to start up its synthetic method durene unit due to thin profit margins. Therefore, the willingness among durene suppliers to hold prices firm and push them higher remains strong.

II. Downstream PMDA Faces Pressure on Sales Volume

Table 1: List of Prices for Domestic PMDA and Upstream/Downstream Products (Oct 30 – Nov 6, 2026)
Unit: RMB/ton