Core Insights - The report by Zhiyan Consulting analyzes the market dynamics and industry prospects of the liquid paraffin sector in China from 2026 to 2032 [1] Price Trends - As of late January 2026, the market price for paraffin (58 half) is 6693.9 yuan per ton, reflecting a year-on-year decline of 18.54% and a month-on-month increase of 0.13% [1] - The highest recorded price in the past five years occurred in late January 2022, reaching 8268.3 yuan per ton [1]

Core Viewpoint - The incidence of chronic constipation is rising in China, with a prevalence rate between 4% and 10%, particularly higher in women and increasing with age [1] Group 1: Patient Demographics and Impact - The number of chronic constipation patients at Tianjin People's Hospital has significantly increased due to changes in diet, lifestyle, and psychological factors [1] - Chronic constipation severely affects the quality of life, leading many patients to self-medicate or rely on long-term prescriptions, which can pose safety risks and delay diagnosis of underlying conditions [1] Group 2: Types of Laxatives - **Bulk-forming Laxatives**: Examples include polycarbophil and wheat cellulose; they are safe for long-term use and suitable for mild constipation, especially in pregnant women and the elderly [2] - **Osmotic Laxatives**: Examples include polyethylene glycol 4000 and lactulose; they soften stool and stimulate bowel movement, suitable for mild to moderate constipation [2] - **Stimulant Laxatives**: Examples include bisacodyl and senna; they act quickly but can lead to dependency and electrolyte imbalances if used long-term [3] - **Lubricant Laxatives**: Examples include glycerin suppositories and liquid paraffin; they provide rapid relief for short-term constipation [3] - **Prokinetic Agents**: Examples include mosapride and itopride; they enhance gut motility and are used in conjunction with other laxatives [3] - **Secretagogues**: Examples include linaclotide; they are prescribed for chronic constipation unresponsive to standard treatments [3] - **Probiotics**: Examples include various strains of Bacillus and Bifidobacterium; they help restore gut flora and improve bowel function, recommended for long-term use [3]

Core Viewpoint - The liquid paraffin market in China is expected to grow from approximately 1.834 billion yuan in 2024 to 2.039 billion yuan in 2025, driven by increasing demand in skincare, cosmetics, lubricants, and preservatives, alongside a shift towards greener and more specialized products due to stricter environmental regulations and evolving consumer preferences [1][17]. Industry Overview - Liquid paraffin, also known as white oil, is derived from kerosene or diesel fractions and is characterized by its chemical stability and inertness, making it essential in various applications such as lubricants, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food packaging [3][17]. - The industry is witnessing a transition towards green, high-end, and specialized products, with technological innovations and market demands driving growth [1][17]. Market Size and Growth - The Chinese liquid paraffin market is projected to reach approximately 1.834 billion yuan in 2024, with an expected increase to 2.039 billion yuan in 2025 [1][17]. - The skincare industry is a significant growth driver, with the market size for skincare products in China estimated at around 295.9 billion yuan in 2024, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 5.01% [14]. Import and Export Dynamics - In 2024, China imported 138,000 tons of liquid paraffin and heavy liquid paraffin, marking a year-on-year increase of 32.83%, with an import value of 1 billion yuan, up 23.93% [19]. - Exports of liquid paraffin and heavy liquid paraffin saw a significant decline, with only 750 tons exported in 2024, a drop of 93.12% year-on-year, attributed to weak international demand and increased trade barriers [19]. Industry Policies - The Chinese government is focusing on sustainable development in the paraffin industry, implementing policies to reduce environmental pollution and enhance resource efficiency [8]. - Recent guidelines aim to support the digital transformation of the petrochemical industry, promoting advanced technologies and improving management levels [8]. Industry Chain Structure - The liquid paraffin industry chain consists of upstream raw materials (primarily petroleum), midstream processing (distillation and cracking), and downstream applications in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and industrial products [11][13]. Key Companies - Major players in the liquid paraffin market include China Petroleum, China Petrochemical, and various regional refineries such as Fushun Petrochemical and Daqing Petrochemical, which are involved in the production and supply of liquid paraffin [22][24][25][27].

Core Viewpoint - Dongming Petrochemical issued a stern statement addressing the spread of false information by illegal individuals claiming to have connections with the company, which has harmed its reputation and disrupted market order [1][2]. Group 1: Company Response - The company emphasized the importance of integrity and transparency in its procurement processes, stating that all procurement projects are managed through a standardized system and that no special channels have been authorized [1][4]. - Dongming Petrochemical warned partners to be vigilant against misleading information and advised them to report any infringement of their rights to the police [1][2]. - The company committed to a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption and fraud, stating that any verified infringement of rights will result in the permanent termination of cooperation and legal accountability for the involved suppliers [2][4]. Group 2: Company Overview - Dongming Petrochemical, established in February 1997, is a large-scale petrochemical enterprise with total assets of 65 billion RMB and an annual crude oil processing capacity of 10.5 million tons [6][7]. - The company employs approximately 8,000 people and operates in various sectors, including basic refining and high-end chemicals, as well as international trade and logistics [6][7]. - The actual controller and legal representative of the company is Li Xiangping, and it is jointly held by Shandong Hongliyuan Co., Ltd. and Shandong Dongming County Petrochemical Plant [6][7].