As of October 12, 2026, the spot market for phthalic anhydride in China showed a strong consolidation with a bullish trend. The short-term market is mainly characterized by fluctuation, with no clear signals of a decline. The current price is at a high level within the last one-year cycle, and the room for further increases is limited. Plant maintenance and low inventory levels are the key supporting factors for the current price.
Data Description
The latest available phthalic anhydride price data in China is up to October 12, 2026. It is recommended to refer to real-time data.
I. Table of Finite Differences
| Difference Type | Value on 2026.10.12 | Value on 2026.10.11 | Direction of Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5-Day Difference (D5) | 63.33 | 113.33 | - |
| 10-Day Difference (D10) | 93.34 | 68.34 | + |
| 20-Day Difference (D20) | 73.33 | 57.5 | + |
II. Signal State Determination
The current combination of the signs of the three mean differences is (－, ＋, ＋), which meets the characteristics of a strong consolidation (bullish) signal according to the method of mean differences in China.
III. Conclusion on Trend Direction
The short-term phthalic anhydride price trend in China is expected to be volatile with a bullish bias. The rationale for this judgment is that the changes in the three average differences from the previous day are not entirely consistent, which aligns with the criteria for a volatile trend. Additionally, the combination of indicators suggests a strong consolidation with a bullish bias, and there are currently no clear drivers for a decline. Therefore, the probability of a stronger performance in the short term is relatively high.
IV. Positional Space Reference
Phthalic anhydride prices over the past 60 days, 3 months, and 1 year in China have all been in the 5th tier (high) of a 5-tier division, meaning they are in the top 20% price range for the period. There is limited room for further increases.
V. Price Trend Chart for the Past Year
6. Fundamental Support Reference
Recently, there have been more instances of plant maintenance and lower operating rates among Chinese phthalic anhydride manufacturers.
Zhenjiang Liancheng Chemical’s 120,000‑ton phthalic anhydride plant is undergoing a shutdown for maintenance, with inventories running below expected levels. On October 10, the quoted price was RMB 10,350 per ton, reflecting an upward revision.
Shijiazhuang Bailong Chemical's 80,000-ton naphthalene-based phthalic anhydride plant has replaced its catalyst, with limited inventory mainly for internal use. On October 10, the quoted price was 10,200 CNY per ton, with an increase in the quote.
Changzhou XinYang's 100,000 tons phthalic anhydride facility utilization rate is only around 60%, with low inventory. On October 9, the price was increased by 250 CNY/ton to 10,300 CNY/ton, with limited orders accepted.
The overall low inventory of the industry provides strong support for the current prices in China.
VII. Risk Warning
The above analysis is for reference only and does not constitute trading advice.
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