Weekly Profit Analysis of Phenol-Acetone Samples in China (October 30 – November 5, 2026)

This week (October 30–November 5, 2026), the average weekly profit for phenol and acetone samples in China was -314 yuan/ton, an increase of 799 yuan/ton compared to the previous period.

According to calculations by Chempricehub Information, as of November 5, the profit margin for Sinopec East China’s phenol and acetone operations stood at -264 yuan/ton, up 751 yuan/ton from October 29. This week, Sinopec’s listed price for pure benzene was cumulatively lowered by 1,500 yuan/ton to 8,800 yuan/ton, while the price of propylene in East China dropped by a cumulative 250 yuan/ton to 11,400 yuan/ton, resulting in a total production cost of 15,120 yuan/ton for phenol and acetone. Meanwhile, Sinopec East China reduced its opening price for benzene-derived phenol by 600 yuan/ton to 9,400 yuan/ton, and cut the opening price for acetone by a cumulative 200 yuan/ton to 8,800 yuan/ton. Consequently, the theoretical loss margin for phenol and acetone producers narrowed significantly.

Data Source: Chempricehub Information

Table: Weekly Profit Comparison for Chinese Phenol and Acetone Samples

Data Source: Chempricehub Information

In the East China market this week, spot prices for pure benzene opened high but trended lower, with the average price falling sharply. Next week, declining costs and weakening supply-demand dynamics are expected to resonate, with a shift toward a looser balance sheet and inventory buildup at ports exerting downward pressure on prices. The market is projected to continue trading weakly within a range, with spot negotiations in East China likely settling between 8,000 and 8,500 yuan/ton. In Shandong, the propylene market rose initially before pulling back during this period. Cost support is expected to weaken further next period, increased supply may weigh on local markets, and downstream factories face profit pressure with limited room for demand recovery. Propylene prices are forecast to remain soft, fluctuating around the 10,500–11,200 yuan/ton range. Short-term cost trends remain weak, constraining the phenol and acetone market. End-user purchasing enthusiasm is low, suggesting slight downward potential for short-term prices. Considering comprehensive analysis of costs, phenol/acetone supply-demand, and price trends, losses for phenol and acetone producers are expected to see minimal volatility next week.

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

Terminology Explanation:

• Cost: Production cost refers to the sum of direct expenses, direct labor, and indirect manufacturing overhead incurred by enterprises to produce specific types and quantities of products. The production cost for phenol and acetone refers to the theoretical cost derived from two major raw materials: pure benzene and propylene.
• Profit: Phenol and acetone production profit is calculated based on petrochemical enterprise pricing. It is defined as the profit remaining after subtracting total costs and additional fees (excluding financial expenses) from Sinopec East China’s listed prices.

Statistical Scope: The statistical period covers last Friday through this Thursday, comparing profit data from this Thursday against last Thursday. Chempricehub Information’s phenol and acetone product profit figures are primary statistical data, released every Thursday between 15:00 and 17:00 on working days.