Market Overview:

In the first half of January 2026, the domestic dichloromethane market showed a trend of initial decline followed by a rebound, exhibiting volatile but generally upward movement. The core logic behind this trend was "supply contraction + rising costs + strong demand support." According to monitoring data from the SunSirs commodity price analysis system, as of January 15th, the average price of bulk dichloromethane in Shandong province was 1,732 RMB/ton, a 2.06% increase compared to the beginning of the month.

Supply side: High operating rates were declining, coupled with expectations of inventory reduction, supporting a price rebound

After the New Year's Day holiday, the operating rate of methane chloride plants remained at a high level of 81%, with major companies operating at full capacity. Market supply was under pressure, leading companies to proactively lower prices to reduce inventory. In mid-January, the operating rate gradually decreased to 75.8%, with some companies experiencing fluctuations in plant capacity. This reduced the industry's supply flexibility, easing inventory pressure and strengthening companies' willingness to maintain prices, driving a continuous price rebound.

Cost side: The dual increase in methanol and liquid chlorine prices had solidified the cost support line

Methanol: Expected decrease in imports coupled with significant inventory reduction at ports. As of January 15th, the SunSirs’ benchmark price for methanol was 2,269.17 RMB/ton, a 2.79% increase compared to the beginning of the month. Liquid Chlorine: Downstream consumers of chlorine were maintaining stable purchases, and the ex-factory price for tank trucks in the Shandong region had risen to 300-400 RMB/ton. Increased cost pressure on methane chloride producers was driving up the price of dichloromethane.

Demand side: Basic needs provided underlying support

Demand-driven purchasing remained stable, while restocking activities by some companies led to increased transaction volumes in certain areas.

Market Outlook:

On the supply side, operating rates are expected to remain stable, and inventory levels are controllable; on the cost side, methanol and liquid chlorine are showing strong fluctuations, providing continued cost support. On the demand side, attention should be paid to the pace of pre-holiday stockpiling, regional weather conditions, and potential disruptions to logistics during the Spring Festival. Dichloromethane prices are expected to remain stable or show a slight upward trend, but a significant price increase is unlikely.

If you have any inquiries or purchasing needs, please feel free to contact SunSirs with support@sunsirs.com.