The market center of gravity for octanol has shifted downward.

1. Daily Summary

① Secondary market prices for 2-ethylhexanol (EHA) remain low, placing pressure on factory quotations.

② Today, the operating rate of domestic EHA units is 74%; downstream DOTP units operate at 62%, and DOP units at 56%.

2. Spot Market Overview

Table 1: Summary of Domestic EHA and Key Downstream Prices (Unit: CNY/ton)

Today, ex-factory prices in Shandong were reported at 9,100 CNY/ton, while reference prices in the Jiangsu market stood at 9,225 CNY/ton. The center of gravity for the domestic EHA market shifted lower today. Buying activity driven by rigid demand remained moderate, with downstream users primarily purchasing according to immediate needs. Prices for key downstream plasticizer products also trended downward, and a wait-and-see sentiment remains prevalent in the market. Spot supply from factories in East China is tight; however, their willingness to actively sell is average. Factories in Shandong are focusing on clearing inventory before the holiday.

3. Production Dynamics

Today, the capacity utilization rate for domestic EHA production is approximately 74%. Raw material propylene prices continued to decline. The mainstream ex-factory price for EHA in Shandong is 9,100 CNY/ton, resulting in a profit margin of 468 CNY/ton for Shandong producers.

4. Price Forecast

Current prices are gradually falling as buyers purchase strictly based on rigid demand, resulting in mediocre transaction activity. Load rates at EHA plants in East China remain relatively low. With ongoing negotiation between upstream and downstream markets, the center of gravity for the EHA market is expected to remain stable tomorrow.

5. Related Product Status

Today, despite the drop in raw material EHA prices, DOP market prices continued to slide. Low-price offers were frequently heard in the afternoon, with transactions occurring at the lower end of the range. A wait-and-see attitude persists among market participants, and overall inquiries remain focused on rigid demand.

6. Data Calendar

Table 2: Domestic EHA Data Overview (Unit: 10,000 tons, CNY/ton)