What Kept China DMF Prices on an Upward Path in August?

China’s Dimethyl Formamide (DMF) market maintained an upward trend throughout August 2026 after a subdued July. Higher feedstock costs, lower operating rates and selective restocking supported firmer offers. In the final week, DMF prices increased 4.21%, according to ChemAnalyst data. Dimethylamine was the key cost driver, with prices advancing 6.46% in the last week. The increase lifted marginal production costs and strengthened supplier pricing. Methanol also remained firm at intervals, adding pressure to producer margins. Demand support came mainly from footwear, sports-apparel and battery manufacturers. Pharmaceutical-intermediate consumption remained steady, while polyurethane slurry and synthetic-leather buyers stayed cautious because of seasonal weakness The near-term outlook is mixed and highly dependent on feedstock movements and downstream procurement. Further dimethylamine or methanol increases could extend the rally, while comfortable inventories, moderate exports and subdued PU demand may encourage a correction. TPU expansion and continued restocking remain potential upside factors for the DMF market.