The domestic phenol market fluctuated within a range in July. According to data monitored by Shengyi Society, the domestic phenol market price on July 1st was 6680 yuan/ton, and on July 31st it was 6667 yuan/ton. The lowest price in the East China market dropped to 6500 yuan/ton.

In the first ten days, traders considered factors such as high average prices and limited willingness to lower their prices, resulting in overall high quotes. However, terminal factories were difficult to be stimulated and offered at low levels. Some traders tentatively offered lower prices. Around mid month, the inventory at Jiangyin Port rapidly declined, boosting the confidence of traders and leading to an increase in orders without pressure. However, downstream demand still needs to follow up, and the participation of intermediate traders is limited. In the latter half of the year, with the interweaving of cost and supply and demand pressures, the market entered a trend of decline and rise. Overall, downstream participation was limited, and there was a lack of demand to follow up, resulting in a light trading atmosphere.
In July, the 320000 tons/year phenol ketone plant at Yangzhou Shiyou was shut down for maintenance from June 13th to July 10th; Hengli Petrochemical will shut down for maintenance from July 21st to 27th; Guangxi Huayi will stop for maintenance from July 25th to 27th; The Shanghai Xisa plant stopped briefly on July 28th for a 3-day maintenance.
As of July 31st, the phenol offers in various mainstream markets across the country are as follows:
Region. Quotation on July 31st /Price fluctuations in July
East China region / 6620./ 50
Shandong region / 6700./ -100
Surrounding areas of Yanshan Mountain / 6700./ -100
South China region / 6650./ 0
Business Society expects that Yangzhou Shiyou will resume production in terms of equipment and Zhenhai will refine products. The domestic supply is expected to increase compared to July, with an estimated monthly output of 500000 tons. In terms of ports, the expected replenishment of ocean going cargo contracts will decrease, and there will be little pressure on the ports. Continuing to monitor the impact of crude oil on pure benzene, downstream phenolic resin is in a relatively low season, while other industries remain stable. Overall, the phenol market is mixed with both positive and negative factors, with frequent market fluctuations and a price range of 6500-6750 yuan/ton.