Core Viewpoint - TDI (Toluene Diisocyanate) prices have experienced significant fluctuations in 2023, with a notable increase due to supply constraints and rising demand, particularly from exports [2][3][4]. Supply Dynamics - TDI prices rose from below 10,000 yuan/ton in April to a peak of 17,000 yuan/ton in July, before retreating to around 15,000 yuan/ton in August [2][5]. - Supply disruptions have been caused by various factors, including production halts at major facilities such as Covestro's German plant and maintenance shutdowns at domestic producers like Wanhua Chemical [3][5]. - The global TDI supply capacity has contracted by approximately 16% due to these disruptions, with significant contributions from both domestic and international sources [3][5]. Demand Trends - Demand for TDI has exceeded expectations, with a reported 83% year-on-year increase in China's TDI exports in the first half of 2025, driven by tariff policies in the U.S. [4]. - The primary consumption sectors for TDI include flexible foam (73%), coatings (17%), and other applications, with the demand closely aligned with the distribution of downstream industries [6]. Price Movements - After a peak in July, TDI prices began to decline in August due to profit-taking and the resumption of some production facilities, alongside a decrease in export volumes [5][6]. - Despite the recent price drop, analysts suggest that the current price level of around 15,000 yuan/ton is relatively low compared to historical highs, indicating potential for future price rebounds [6][8]. Historical Context - The TDI market previously experienced a significant boom from 2016 to 2017, with prices soaring from 11,000 yuan/ton to 55,000 yuan/ton, driven by supply reductions and increasing demand from the real estate sector [8][9]. - The current market conditions, while challenging, are not expected to lead to a prolonged decline below 15,000 yuan/ton, as underlying demand and supply dynamics may support price stabilization [8].
供给端扰动不断,这一化工原料价格大幅上涨5000元/吨