June 26th, news:
I. Price Trends
According to the commodity analysis system, the caustic soda prices were stable this week. The average market price from the beginning to the end of the week was 670 CNY/ton, a decrease of 20.14% compared to the same period last year. On June 25, the chlor-alkali index was 741 points, down 8 points from yesterday, and down 65.18% from the highest point of 2128 points (October 24, 2021). Compared to the lowest point of 707 points on February 27, 2026, it has increased by 4.81%. (Note: The cycle refers to the period from December 1, 2011, to the present.)
II. Market Analysis
According to the commodity analysis system, the caustic soda prices in China showed a relatively stable trend this week. In Shandong, the caustic soda prices increased, with the mainstream market quotes for 32% ion-exchange membrane caustic soda around 610-690 CNY/ton. In Zhejiang, the caustic soda prices remained stable, with the mainstream market quotes for 32% ion-exchange membrane caustic soda delivered to Xiaoshan around 760-820 CNY/ton. In Inner Mongolia, the caustic soda prices were consolidating, with the mainstream market quotes for 32% ion-exchange membrane caustic soda (converted to 100%) around 1900-1950 CNY/ton. This week, the caustic soda prices were influenced by both positive and negative factors. On the positive side: there are still chlor-alkali enterprises scheduled for maintenance, leading to lower production, which is expected to reduce inventory. Additionally, downstream alumina manufacturers are actively stockpiling, providing support for caustic soda prices. On the negative side: the inventory of caustic soda enterprises is accumulating, and the demand from non-aluminum downstream sectors remains weak, with most purchases made on an as-needed basis, resulting in continued pressure on the market.
Analysts believe that the caustic soda prices have been weak recently, and this week, the downstream alumina sector in China has shown good demand. Currently, the purchasing price of alumina is favorable, and the inventory of caustic soda producers has decreased, which supports the caustic soda prices. However, due to average demand from non-aluminum enterprises, it is expected that the supply and demand dynamics will lead to a consolidation phase for caustic soda, depending on the specific downstream market demand.
