Summary: On March 18, 2026, the domestic Chlor-Alkali market saw significant upward momentum. Liquid Caustic Soda prices rose on the back of strong export orders, while PVC and Calcium Carbide experienced price increases driven by supply constraints and futures market rallies.

1. Market Highlights

• Caustic Soda: The market is bullish. Export orders in coastal regions like Shandong have provided robust support, lifting the transaction center for liquid caustic soda. Caustic Soda Flakes reference price has risen to 3,449 RMB/ton (tax incl.), with factories reporting full order books.

• Liquid Chlorine & HCl: Prices in Shandong rose by 50 RMB/ton due to improved downstream demand and regional production limits. Hydrochloric acid remains stable, following the liquid chlorine trend.

• Calcium Carbide & PVC: Calcium carbide ex-factory prices stay firm at 2,600 RMB/ton. Driven by a rebound in $V2605$ futures, Carbide-based PVC spot prices have shifted upward to the 5,650-5,850 RMB/ton range.

2. Strategic Insight

The current market reflects a "Cost + Export" dual-driven rally. Wuxi High Mountain continues to monitor the impact of Middle Eastern energy fluctuations on Ethylene-based products while leveraging its strengths in global trade to capitalize on the increasing demand for Chinese chemical exports.