China’s Sodium Isethionate market showed signs of recovery during the first half of May as improving seasonal demand expectations from the water-treatment and pulp & paper sectors supported a gradual improvement in market sentiment. The recovery followed a significantly bearish April market, when abundant supply availability, elevated producer operating rates, and weak downstream procurement pressured prices sharply lower. Demand from personal care, detergent, and taurine-related sectors remained subdued as buyers relied on existing inventories and adopted cautious purchasing strategies. Although rising Ethylene Oxide costs continued to pressure producer margins, improving export inquiries and gradual inventory replenishment are expected to support a modest market rebound through May.
