Price trend

In early February 2026, the domestic dimethyl carbonate market ended its previous weak trend and showed a narrow, slightly upward movement.

According to the commodity price analysis system of SunSirs, as of February 6th, the average price of industrial-grade dimethyl carbonate in China was 3,800 RMB/ton, an increase of 1.33% compared to the beginning of the month. The main driving forces behind the market increase were the concentrated stockpiling by downstream buyers before the Spring Festival and the proactive price-supporting strategies of manufacturers.

Analysis of the reasons for the price increase

Supply was contracting in phases: some facilities were undergoing maintenance, resulting in no significant increase in spot supply, and supply was tightening in phases; some manufacturers were fulfilling orders on a staggered basis, limiting the flow of spot goods and alleviating oversupply pressure. However, new production capacity continuesd to be released in the long term, increasing expectations of market supply.

Demand "pre-holiday effect": As the Spring Festival approaching, downstream industries mostly purchased based on immediate needs and stocked up on essential goods, but there was no strong momentum for a significant overall increase in demand.

Manufacturers proactively adjusted prices: Major producers such as Shandong Hualu Hengsheng increased their ex-factory list prices by 100 RMB/ton, directly fueling bullish sentiment in the market.

Cost support from the bottom: The prices of the main raw materials, propylene oxide (PO) and methanol, both decreased in early February, which eased cost pressure but also weakened the upward pressure on DMC prices from the cost side.

On February 6th, the benchmark price of propylene oxide according to SunSirs was 8,000 RMB/ton, a decrease of 2.44% compared to the beginning of the month.

On February 6th, the benchmark price of methanol according to SunSirs was 2,200 RMB/ton, a decrease of 2.87% compared to the beginning of the month.

Market outlook

Overall, the market is likely to enter a period of consolidation and sideways trading in the short term.

Before the Spring Festival, the market is expected to remain stable with limited downside potential, supported by essential stocking-up demand and manufacturers maintaining prices. However, there is no basis for a sustained surge in prices. For the long-term trend, close attention should be paid to the progress of new capacity additions and the recovery of genuine downstream demand.

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