Based on the analysis using the method of averages, the current spot price of phthalic anhydride in China is showing a clear upward trend in the short term, supported by plant maintenance at multiple production facilities and tight supply. However, as the current price is already at a high level within the last year's cycle, the room for further increases is limited, and market participants need to be cautious of the risks associated with high volatility.
Data Description
The latest available data is up to October 14, 2026. It is recommended to refer to real-time data.
I. Table of Finite Differences
| Mean Difference Indicator | Value as of 2026.10.14 | Value as of 2026.10.13 | Direction of Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5-Day Mean Difference (D5) | 286.66 | 40 | + |
| 10-Day Mean Difference (D10) | 146.67 | 121.66 | + |
| 20-Day Mean Difference (D20) | 112.5 | 85.84 | + |
II. Signal State Determination
The current three differences are all positive and moving in the same direction, which is a clear signal of an increase.
III. Conclusions on Trend Directions
The short-term trend is clearly upward. Reason: According to the judgment rules of the mean difference method, the change directions of D5, D10, and D20 compared to the previous day are completely consistent, and all three mean differences are positive, meeting the criteria for a clear upward trend. Additionally, at the industry level, several phthalic anhydride production enterprises in China have recently shut down their facilities for maintenance, leading to low inventory levels or even overselling. The tight supply has pushed manufacturers to continuously raise their quotations, further supporting the upward price trend.
4. Spatial Reference
The current phthalic anhydride price in China is at the 5th level (high) in the 60-day, 3-month, and 1-year cycles, with limited room for further increase.
V. Price Trend Chart for the Past Year
VI. Recent Industry Developments in China
On October 14, 2026, the 100,000‑ton phthalic anhydride unit at Changzhou Xinyang was shut down for maintenance, leading to oversold inventory. Phthalic anhydride prices were quoted at RMB 10,800 per ton, with prices trending upward and orders being accepted on a limited basis.
On October 13, 2026, the 80,000 ton o-xylene phthalic anhydride unit of Tongling Chemical Industry Group in China operated normally. The phthalic anhydride was quoted at 10,300 CNY/ton, with an increase of 100 CNY/ton. The actual transaction price increased, and the supply was tight, leading to limited sales.
On October 10, 2026, Zhenjiang Liancheng Chemical’s 120,000‑ton phthalic anhydride plant underwent a shutdown for maintenance, leading to inventory shortages and oversold stock. Phthalic anhydride prices were quoted at RMB 10,350 per ton, with both the quoted and actual transaction prices rising.
On October 10, 2026, the 80,000-ton naphthalene-based phthalic anhydride unit at Shijiazhuang Bailong Chemical replaced its catalyst, with limited inventory primarily for internal use. The phthalic anhydride price was quoted at 10,200 CNY per ton, with the quote and actual transaction prices both increasing.
VII. Risk Warning
The above analysis is for reference only and does not constitute trading advice.
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