Release Date: April 24, 2026

Summary: On April 24, the domestic chlor-alkali industrial chain exhibited a trend of narrow fluctuations. Due to a slowdown in downstream procurement and volatility in futures markets, price centers for core products such as Liquid Caustic Soda, Calcium Carbide, and PVC experienced localized downward adjustments. Wuxi High Mountain provides this review of today's market performance.

1. Caustic Soda: Regional Divergence with a Weak Bias

Liquid Caustic Soda: Localized Transaction Centers Decline The domestic liquid caustic soda market remained stable overall today, though price concessions were observed in specific regions.

• Shandong: Downstream buyers are purchasing strictly on a "just-in-time" basis. Low-priced warehouse warrants are circulating, and price cuts by some producers in Southwestern Shandong have heightened the "wait-and-see" sentiment.

• Northwest & East China: While some units in Ningxia are offline, supply contraction is being met by average terminal demand. In Jiangsu and Guangdong, downstream sentiment is steady, with producers focusing on active inventory movement.

Flake Caustic Soda: Stable Shipments Amid Supply Tightening The flake caustic soda market maintained steady operations today. Supply continues to contract due to load reductions and maintenance in the Northwest and Shandong regions.

• Market Dynamics: Although the May Day holiday is approaching, restricted hazardous chemical logistics and insufficient downstream orders are dampening restocking enthusiasm. Manufacturers are currently focusing on clearing backlogged orders.

• 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: Steady Fundamentals

Liquid Chlorine: Localized Price Adjustments The supply and demand sides of the liquid chlorine market remained relatively balanced today. In Shandong, prices saw minor upward adjustments following previous corrections, while Northern Jiangsu saw a price drop of approximately 100 RMB/ton as neighboring facilities resumed production.

Hydrochloric Acid: Improved Trading Sentiment The hydrochloric acid market performed well today, with producers actively moving goods. Limited supply—caused by stable operations in Shandong and maintenance-related contractions in Sichuan—has kept prices consolidating at higher levels.

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

Industrial Salt: Maintaining Steady Operations The industrial salt market followed a stable trajectory today. Operating loads for well/mineral salt remain consistent, supported by essential downstream procurement. In the sea salt sector, the start of the first harvest in Shandong later this month is expected to ensure ample supply.

3. Calcium Carbide and PVC: Futures Volatility Weighs on Spot Prices

Calcium Carbide: Cautious Market Sentiment The domestic calcium carbide market remained stable today. Ex-factory prices in Ningxia and Wuhai are approximately 2,150 RMB/ton. Under prolonged downward pressure, some producers have recently reduced loads or shut down furnaces, which has helped alleviate the supply-demand conflict.

PVC Market: Weak Performance and Tepid Trading

• Carbide-based PVC: Impacted by the downward fluctuation of the V2609 futures contract, spot transaction centers shifted slightly lower. Bearish sentiment persists among market participants. East/South China prices are expected to fluctuate around 4,850–5,100 RMB/ton (Ex-warehouse, tax inclusive).

• Ethylene-based PVC: Trends remain stable, but actual transactions have fallen short of expectations due to downstream resistance toward higher price points. Supply remains ample with stable operating loads. East/South China price references are between 5,650–6,200 RMB/ton (Tax and freight inclusive).

4. HM Perspective: Strategic Outlook Ahead of the Holiday

Based on today's data, Wuxi High Mountain offers the following advice for our partners:

1. Logistics Planning: With the May Day holiday approaching, hazardous chemical transport efficiency may decline. We recommend arranging shipping schedules in advance for immediate needs.

2. Monitor Maintenance: The maintenance status of calcium carbide and flake soda units in the Northwest will directly impact supply elasticity. Close monitoring of operating rates is essential.

3. Quality Assurance: High Mountain is committed to providing global clients with stable supplies of PVC Paste Resin, MCAA, Rongalite (SFS), and Thiourea. Our professional supply chain team ensures your production remains well-supported.