China Maleic Anhydride, Acrylonitrile and ABS: Cost Support Returns in July 2026

Higher oil and feedstock costs supported a July rebound in Chinese maleic anhydride, acrylonitrile and ABS, although weak summer demand continues to limit market momentum.

Key Takeaways

• Prices fell in June as geopolitical risk eased, then rebounded in mid-July alongside butane.
• Abundant supply and weaker demand had pushed sellers to reduce prices.
• ABS prices reached their lowest point since March around late June and early July as crude and upstream values declined.

Maleic Anhydride: Supply Improves as Demand Enters the Slow Season

Prices fell in June as geopolitical risk eased, then rebounded in mid-July alongside butane. Producers returned from maintenance, improving supply, while summer demand remained weak. Higher prices nevertheless generated inquiries from price-sensitive overseas buyers.

Acrylonitrile: Cost Pressure Interrupts a Weak Market

Abundant supply and weaker demand had pushed sellers to reduce prices. Mid-July crude strength then lifted costs and prompted consecutive producer increases, taking domestic prices to roughly RMB 9,900–10,100 per metric ton.

ABS: Feedstock Support Drives a Rebound

ABS prices reached their lowest point since March around late June and early July as crude and upstream values declined. Renewed shipping and supply concerns then lifted oil and feedstock costs, leading producers to raise offers. Current market levels are approximately RMB 9,750–11,000 per metric ton.

What to Watch

These markets remain caught between cost-driven price support and weak seasonal demand. The durability of the rebound will depend on energy values, export interest and whether downstream buyers accept higher prices.