European plasticizers started in April with healthier demand and stronger spot prices. There were a lot of orders in early April, and some sellers said that the materials in April were sold out.

One factor is that the Easter holiday will begin on April 15, and buyers need to be prepared for it in advance. During the Easter holidays, some buyers will temporarily shut down downstream devices for up to a week.

Rising raw material costs and, in some cases, small supply constraints due to upstream constraints (rather than any technical problems on the site) have also pushed up prices. Most buyers received higher DINP, DOTP and DPHP quotations in April.

The second quarter is usually the peak period of plasticizer demand. Demand began to grow healthily in April, which most sources believe is stronger than March.

“Demand has exceeded our supply capacity.” A DOTP seller said.

Another supplier said, “The market is finally beginning to change.” At the beginning of this year, the supplier pointed out the first quarter price.

“We have received some inquiries from May. Maybe because of Easter, some downstream devices will be shut down. Buyers hope to get May’s price by April 19.” A source said.

“Even at Easter, our consumption will be stronger this month,” said one buyer.

Whether this trend will continue in April remains to be seen. So far, spot prices of DINP and DOTP have risen by about 10-20 euros/ton, and prices are likely to rise further later this month.