Dioctyl phthalate (DOP) prices in South Korea fell 7.18% quarter-over-quarter in Q3 2026 to an average of approximately USD 1,336.67/MT (FOB Busan), according to ChemAnalyst, as softer feedstock costs and export competition pressured offers. The decline reversed part of the previous quarter’s strong rally and underscores the volatility that continues to define the Asian plasticizer market.
Prices retreated in July as naphtha-linked 2-ethylhexanol and phthalic anhydride offers softened, reducing variable production costs, while a modest August diversion of Busan cargoes to Southeast Asia was insufficient to offset the earlier feedstock-driven easing. September brought a notable monthly rebound, however, as producers prioritised contractual domestic commitments, tightening prompt spot availability, and export enquiries from Vietnam and Indonesia strengthened for remaining Busan lots. Feedstock economics softened early in the quarter, and the near-term Price Forecast points to limited cost support for supplier offers.
Elsewhere in Asia, Chinese DOP spot prices stayed firm in September as a 10.75% surge in 2-ethylhexanol elevated conversion costs and Shanghai merchant inventories thinned ahead of the National Day holiday, while India faced rising phthalic-anhydride and freight costs that accelerated converter restocking ahead of the festival season. In the United States, DOP was assessed at USD 1,770/MT during Q3. ChemAnalyst assessments for September 2026 place South Korean DOP at USD 1,420.00/MT, China at USD 1,360.00/MT and India at USD 1,537.29/MT.