Summary: On April 22, the domestic chlor-alkali market exhibited complex regional differentiation. While the liquid caustic soda market softened due to tepid downstream demand, the flake caustic soda sector showed resilience on expectations of tightening supply. Meanwhile, the PVC market saw a narrow upward adjustment in spot prices, fueled by gains in the futures market. Wuxi High Mountain provides this comprehensive data review.

1. Caustic Soda: Flake Soda Strengthens While Liquid Soda Softens

Liquid Caustic Soda: Weak Consolidation The domestic liquid caustic soda market performed modestly today, with price centers shifting slightly lower.

• North & Northwest China: Alumina refineries and non-aluminum end-users showed average procurement interest, maintaining a "just-in-time" approach. Producers are focused on active shipments and price stability.

• Central & East China: Some plants have reduced operating loads, but market sentiment remains cautious, influenced by price drops in neighboring regions.

• South China: Trading activity is moderate, with some producers actively seeking to move inventory.

Flake Caustic Soda: Bullish Sentiment on Tightening Supply In contrast, the flake caustic soda market appeared firmer. Supply is expected to contract due to production load reductions or planned maintenance in Xinjiang, Inner Mongolia, and parts of Shandong. Despite uncertainty regarding terminal consumption capacity, traders are actively picking up goods due to cost support and logistics policies.

• Price Reference: The current reference price for solid caustic soda in China is approximately 3,114 RMB/ton (Ex-warehouse, tax inclusive).

2. Liquid Chlorine, Hydrochloric Acid, and Industrial Salt: Regional Fluctuations

Liquid Chlorine: Continued Downtrend The domestic liquid chlorine market remains under pressure. In Shandong, stable production and ample supply are meeting tepid downstream sentiment. To alleviate inventory pressure, prices were lowered by 100–150 RMB/ton.

Hydrochloric Acid: Stable Consolidation The hydrochloric acid market remained largely stable today. Inventory is relatively tight in Shandong and Jining, leading to steady shipment rhythms. In regions like Jiangxi and Hubei, transaction prices remain at high-level consolidation due to stable downstream purchasing.

• Price Reference: Prices for 31% synthetic hydrochloric acid are mostly concentrated between 50–250 RMB/ton.

Industrial Salt: Steady Performance

• Well/Mineral Salt: Operations are normal. While some maintenance plans in Hubei and the Southwest suggest local supply contractions, the overall supply-demand balance remains stable.

• Sea Salt: Market trends are steady. The first batch of sea salt harvesting in Shandong is expected to begin later this month, which has helped factory inventories recover slightly.

3. Calcium Carbide and PVC: Futures Rally Drives Narrow Spot Gains

Calcium Carbide: Localized Softening The calcium carbide market experienced a slight dip today. In regions like Ningxia, Wuhai, and Shaanxi, high arrival volumes at downstream facilities prompted buyers to lower their purchase prices by 20–50 RMB/ton. A slight downward risk persists in the short term.

PVC Market: Rebounding Sentiment

• Carbide-based PVC: Driven by the continuous climb of the V2609 futures contract, spot prices pushed slightly higher today. Despite underlying fundamental challenges, transaction centers have moved up, with both "point-pricing" and "fixed-pricing" active in the market. East/South China prices are expected to fluctuate around 4,850–5,050 RMB/ton (Ex-warehouse, tax inclusive).

• Ethylene-based PVC: Market sentiment has improved, showing a noticeable upward trend in prices, though actual volume remains limited. Operating rates are stable at 62.05%. East/South China price references are between 5,700–6,300 RMB/ton (Tax and freight inclusive).

4. HM Perspective: Strategic Outlook Ahead of the Holiday

Based on today's data, Wuxi High Mountain recommends the following:

1. Monitor Flake Soda Supply: Given the extensive maintenance plans in Northwest production hubs, supply support for flake soda is strong. Buyers with immediate needs should consider securing stocks.

2. Rational PVC Procurement: While futures are driving spot prices higher, social inventory remains elevated. Downstream manufacturers should avoid aggressive chasing and stick to essential procurement.

3. Reliable Supply Chain: High Mountain is committed to being your stable source for PVC Paste Resin, Rongalite (SFS), and Thiourea. We provide resilient supply support regardless of market volatility.