Weekly Analysis of Production Profit for China's Phenol-Acetone Samples (November 6–12, 2026)

This week (November 6–12, 2026), the weekly average profit for phenol and acetone samples in China was 105 RMB/ton, an increase of 419 RMB/ton from the previous period.

According to Chempricehub calculations, as of November 12, the phenol and acetone profit for Sinopec East China enterprises stood at 160 RMB/ton, up by 424 RMB/ton compared to November 5. This week, Sinopec’s posted price for pure benzene decreased cumulatively by 900 RMB/ton to 7,900 RMB/ton, while the price for propylene in East China dropped cumulatively by 1,000 RMB/ton to 10,400 RMB/ton, resulting in a total cost base for phenol and acetone production of 13,810 RMB/ton. Meanwhile, Sinopec East China’s opening prices for phenol and acetone fell cumulatively by 700 RMB/ton to 8,700 RMB/ton and by 300 RMB/ton to 8,500 RMB/ton, respectively. Consequently, theoretical profits for phenol and acetone producers shifted from loss to profit.

Data Source: Chempricehub

Table: Weekly Profit Comparison for Chinese Phenol and Acetone Samples

Data Source: Chempricehub

This week, spot prices for pure benzene in the East China market declined initially before rebounding. Looking ahead, crude oil prices are expected to trend downward, further weakening support for pure benzene. Import arrivals at East China ports are projected to increase, leading to a looser supply environment. Although there is some restocking demand driven by low prices, the expectation of inventory buildup will likely prevent sustained upward momentum. Spot prices in the East China market are forecasted to range between 7,800 and 8,100 RMB/ton.

In Shandong, the propylene market rose this period before pulling back. Next week, with international crude oil prices expected to decline, cost support for propylene will weaken. There have been no significant changes in plant operations overall, and the market is primarily focused on consuming existing inventories. The Haijiang acrylonitrile unit plans to shut down, reducing local demand, while other downstream units remain stable. However, the inverted price spread between polypropylene (PP) and propylene has narrowed slightly. Market participants are advised to closely monitor plant operational updates. Propylene prices next week are expected to fluctuate within a range of 10,200 to 10,600 RMB/ton.

Short-term fluctuations in input costs have narrowed. Although phenol and acetone producers are currently enjoying slight profits, monthly average prices remain relatively high, suggesting limited willingness among suppliers to offer discounts. Prices are expected to oscillate within a narrow range. Considering cost structures, supply-demand dynamics, and price trends for phenol and acetone, producer margins are predicted to remain largely unchanged next week.

Sample Description: On the data release day, Chempricehub monitors theoretical costs and profits based on Sinopec East China’s posted prices for phenol, acetone, and raw materials.

Definitions:

• Cost: Production cost refers to the sum of direct expenses, direct labor, and indirect manufacturing overhead incurred by an enterprise to produce a specific type and quantity of goods. For phenol and acetone, this represents the theoretical production cost derived from the two main raw materials: pure benzene and propylene.
• Profit: Phenol and acetone production profit is calculated based on petrochemical enterprise pricing standards. Specifically, it is defined as Sinopec East China’s posted prices minus total costs and additional fees (excluding financial expenses).

Statistical Methodology: The statistical period runs from last Friday to this Thursday, comparing profit data from this Thursday against that of last Thursday. Chempricehub’s phenol and acetone product profit figures are primary statistical data, released every Thursday between 15:00 and 17:00 on working days.