In the US, Aniline import prices remained stable in the early weeks of January 2026 as supply and demand were balanced in the market. Producers kept output stable thanks to enough benzene supply, though higher costs continued to squeeze margins. However, the pace of imports slackened as buyers were carrying ample inventories, end-user demand remained cautious, and policy uncertainty dampened new orders. Transpacific trade was also depressed as carriers trimmed capacity in response to delayed restocking by retailers and manufacturers. Quiet but firm demand continued, with downstream consumption steady, as demand was primarily driven by continued consumption of Aniline for MDI production. The car industry was still sluggish, with slow post-holiday production and fewer EV sales, which were not conducive to a great demand for polyurethane parts. Residential and commercial activity was held back by high financing costs, but large industrial and infrastructure projects bolstered construction demand. Looking forward, a mild decline in Aniline prices is expected in the next few weeks because of weak winter demand, high stocks, and smooth logistics.
