Supply and Demand Support: Domestic MEK Market in January Shows Steady Growth

According to the commodity market analysis system of Business Society, as of January 1, 2026, the domestic market price of methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) was referenced at 6,550 yuan/ton. Compared with January 1, 2026 (MEK reference price 6,383 yuan/ton), the price increased by 167 yuan/ton, a rise of 2.61%. The Business Society commodity market analysis system indicates that in January 2026, the domestic MEK market overall showed a steady upward trend, with the market focus gradually converging upward.

In the first half of January (January 1–12), the MEK market was in a consolidation phase, with a temporary balance between supply and demand. Sellers showed a strong willingness to maintain prices, while buyers adopted a wait-and-see attitude. In the second half of January (January 13–20), MEK prices steadily increased. By January 31, the domestic MEK market price was referenced at approximately 6,500–6,650 yuan/ton, with a cumulative increase of 100–200 yuan/ton over the month.

Analysis of Factors Influencing MEK Market Trends
Supply and Demand Side: Currently, maintenance shutdowns at some MEK production facilities have tightened supply, supporting market conditions. Although demand recovery has been slow overall, pre-holiday stockpiling and improved exports have alleviated supply-demand pressures. Sellers are united in supporting the market, and cautious optimism about post-holiday expectations has further driven prices upward.

Cost Side: The price of raw material C4 has shown little fluctuation. However, MEK prices are currently at a low level over the past year, resulting in thin profit margins for manufacturers and a strong willingness to maintain prices.

Outlook for MEK Market
In the short term, pre-holiday stockpiling will continue to provide some support to the domestic MEK market. In the long term, attention should be paid to the actual recovery of terminal demand after the holiday, including downstream industries such as coatings and adhesives, as well as the operating rates of production capacity in the industry.