The market center of gravity for octanol has risen continuously.

1. Today's Summary

① Spot transactions for 2-ethylhexanol (EHA) in Shandong closed at RMB 9,200–9,300/tonne, with mainstream ex-factory prices resulting in a loss of RMB 292/tonne.
② Domestic EHA plant operating rates stood at 72% today; downstream DOTP plant operating rates were at 56%, while DOP plant operating rates were at 47%.

2. Spot Market Overview

Table 1: Summary of Prices for Domestic EHA and Major Downstream Products (Unit: RMB/tonne)

Today, ex-factory prices for EHA in Shandong ranged from RMB 9,200 to 9,300/tonne, while reference prices in the Jiangsu market were between RMB 9,350 and 9,400/tonne. The trading center of gravity for the domestic EHA market rose today. As EHA prices gradually increased, buyers began showing caution regarding procurement of raw materials at higher price levels, though demand-driven buying remained relatively steady. With production costs exceeding selling prices (negative margins), industry operating rates declined, and supply is expected to decrease further this month, leading manufacturers to maintain firm offer prices. Currently, the price gap between East China and Shandong has widened, while downstream users continue to restock based on essential needs.

3. Production Dynamics

Today, the capacity utilization rate for domestic EHA was approximately 72%. Raw material propylene prices in Shandong rose by RMB 195/tonne to reach RMB 10,745/tonne. The contract listing price for EHA in Shandong was RMB 9,300/tonne, resulting in a cost deficit of RMB 292/tonne for Shandong-based producers.

4. Price Forecast

Inventory levels at EHA manufacturers are gradually declining, and industry operating rates are expected to fall further, reducing pressure on market supply. High raw material propylene prices provide support, and factories show a clear intention to push prices up. Therefore, the trading center of gravity for the EHA market is expected to rise slightly tomorrow.

5. Related Product Status

Today, prices for raw materials EHA and phthalic anhydride rose. In the DOP market, traders maintained stable prices while shipping goods. Some profit-taking sales occurred, leading to slightly lower transaction prices. At the beginning of the week, market sentiment included notable wait-and-see attitudes. End-users continued to buy based on immediate needs, resulting in generally mediocre market activity.

6. Data Calendar

Table 2: Domestic EHA Data Overview (Unit: 10,000 tonnes, RMB/tonne)