April Ethylene Oxide Prices Remain Flat at High Levels

April 29 news

Ethylene Oxide Prices Remain Stabilized at High Levels in April 2026

In 2026, the price of ethylene oxide remained high and stable for a long time in April. According to the data, as of April 29, the average market price of ethylene oxide in China was 9,000 CNY/ton, an increase of 2.27% from the beginning of the month (April 1) when the average market price was 8,800 CNY/ton.

On April 29, 2026, the quotations for the ethylene oxide (EO) market in various regions of China were as follows: In the East China region, the market price for ethylene oxide was set at 9,000 CNY/ton; in the South China region, the listed price for ethylene oxide was 8,900-9,000 CNY/ton; in the North China region, the listed price for ethylene oxide was 9,000 CNY/ton; and in the Central China region, the listed price for ethylene oxide was 9,150 CNY/ton.

Compared to the sharp increase in March, the rise in ethylene oxide (EO) prices in April significantly slowed down, entering a period of high-level digestion. The strong performance of ethylene oxide prices is mainly due to cost support, controllable supply, and stable demand.

The Core Support for the High-Range Trading of Ethylene Oxide Prices in April 2026

Cost side: Ethylene, supported by the conflict in the Middle East and high oil prices, accounts for more than 70% of EO costs. Companies have a strong desire to maintain prices, forming a rigid support. The profitability of EO/EG co-production facilities has improved, but there has not been a large-scale shift in production, and supply has not increased significantly.

Supply side: In the first ten days, plant maintenance led to a tighter supply. In the middle and late part of the month, maintenance ended and load increased, with the industry's operating rate rising to around 57%. The overall supply was manageable, and no surplus occurred.

Demand side: Downstream demand for nonionic surfactants, ethanolamine, and other essential products remains stable, with procurement primarily based on contractual agreements. The off-season isn't truly slow, showing neither significant drag nor standout performance.

Emotional side: The end-of-month rebound in EG has boosted the bullish sentiment toward chemical products. Coupled with the geopolitical premium triggered by the Middle East conflict, this has strengthened traders' willingness to hold prices.

2026 May Ethylene Oxide Price Outlook

In May, it is expected that the epoxy ethane market in China will experience high-level fluctuations, with a core price range of 8,800-9,200 CNY/ton. It is necessary to closely monitor the changes in the price of ethylene, the operating rate of EO facilities, and the downstream rigid demand. If the facility utilization rate in May rises above 65%, there may be a sign of a more relaxed supply; the downstream profit is under pressure, and the acceptance of high prices is limited; if oil prices fall, it will weaken the cost support.