Caustic soda prices had been generally steady throughout Asia and America at the close of April xxxx as a balance between downstream caution and supply-side pressure influenced prices. Seasonality, commercial discipline, and regulatory action all featured prominently in both regions to sustain price levels.
In the Asian market, caustic soda prices showed little fluctuation as trading activity stayed within a consolidation phase. Even with adequate supply from producers, average downstream demand suppressed market sentiment. The alumina industry, one of the largest consumers of Caustic Soda, continued to run with decreasing margins and reduced utilization levels. Non-aluminum industries such as textiles and viscose fiber also saw a slowdown, with production levels reducing due to uncertainty in global trade and risk-averse buying behavior.
Analysts pointed out that while demand continues to be subdued, inventories are gradually decreasing, indicating some short-term restocking by...
