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Core Viewpoint - Methanol prices have ended a downward trend since July of the previous year and have entered an upward market in 2026, supported by low valuations, expectations of inventory reduction at ports, and geopolitical factors that have increased price volatility [1] Group 1: Inventory and Supply Dynamics - Methanol port inventory has been in a seasonal accumulation cycle since May of the previous year, reaching a historical high in September, which has suppressed prices [2] - Due to the cold weather, Iranian methanol production facilities began to shut down in November 2025, leading to a significant reduction in methanol imports to China, which is expected to alleviate port inventory pressure [3] - As of January 15, 2026, coastal methanol inventory stands at 1.42 million tons, down approximately 220,000 tons from the peak in mid-November 2025, indicating a marginal improvement in supply-demand dynamics [3] Group 2: Price and Profitability Trends - Domestic methanol production is characterized by high supply and low profitability, with overall operating rates at 77.91% as of January 15, 2026, slightly down from the previous week but up year-on-year [4] - Production profits have significantly decreased, with coal-based methanol in Inner Mongolia showing a loss of 251.60 yuan/ton, a 17.79% decrease month-on-month, and similar declines observed in other regions [4] - The upward movement in methanol prices is constrained by rising raw material costs, particularly during the winter demand peak for coal and natural gas [4] Group 3: Downstream Demand and Market Sentiment - The operating rate of methanol-to-olefins (MTO) facilities has decreased to 80.75%, with several plants undergoing maintenance, indicating pressure on downstream demand for methanol [5] - Traditional downstream sectors such as formaldehyde and acetic acid are performing poorly, with overall operating rates at historically low levels, limiting demand support for methanol as the Spring Festival approaches [6] - The geopolitical situation, particularly tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela, has raised concerns about methanol supply, further contributing to price volatility [3][6]