Sinopec News: Post-holiday supply pressure is manageable; many regions' caustic soda market prices remain stable or slightly increase

In the first week after the holiday, the domestic price of 32% liquid caustic soda remains stable in most areas, with some markets seeing prices rise or fall compared to the week before the holiday. Many chlor-alkali plants reduced production or shut down during the holiday, so post-holiday inventory pressure is not significant. Additionally, poor profitability of chlor-alkali companies has led to a clear stance of supporting prices, keeping prices steady. Some regions, however, have limited inventories after the holiday, and rising prices in surrounding markets have driven prices up. Only in Chongqing has the price slightly decreased due to the impact of lower-priced liquid caustic soda from outside the province. As of February 26, the mainstream spot ex-factory price of 32% ion-exchange membrane caustic soda in Shandong is 600-725 yuan/ton, with an average closing price of 657.5 yuan/ton, up 5.62% from the average closing price of 622.5 yuan/ton on February 12. Looking ahead to next week, demand recovery will still take time. Some chlor-alkali plants are gradually resuming production, but inventory pressure remains manageable. Coupled with poor profitability, there is still a willingness to support prices for liquid caustic soda. It is expected that next week, prices of 32% liquid caustic soda in many regions will remain stable or slightly increase. (Zhuochuang Information)