Ethane (C₂H₆) — Domestic and Import Prices Diverge Sharply in Q1 2026
MArket Overview
China's liquefied ethanemarket exhibited significant price divergence in the first quarter of 2026, acCording to data from SCI99 (Zhuochuang Information). February 2026 saw Shaanxiliquefied ethane regional transaction prices average approximately 3,657.5 RMB/ton, down 9.64 RMB/ton or 0.26% month-on-month. Supply side pressures persisted, though downstream rigid demand from the combustion sector provided some support.
Import vs. Domestic Price Divergence
Import Prices Decline:
According to Sohu (April 8, 2026), Q1 2026 imported ethane average CIF prices reached 3,410 RMB/ton, down 415 RMB/ton or 10.85% year-on-year, and down 278 RMB/ton or 7.54% quarter-on-quarter.
Domestic Prices Rise:
Domestic ethane prices showed upward momentum. According to Mysteel (April 3, 2026), the domestic ethane market has recently shown a pronounced divergence—domestic ethane prices continue to rise while import prices trade in a low range, with the price gap rapidly widening and continuously breaking through historical ranges.
Ethylene-Ethane Spread Widens
The ethylene-ethane spread, a key indicator of cracker economics, expanded significantly. As of January 14, 2026, U.S. ethane prices fell from $217/ton to $148/ton, while the ethylene-ethane spread expanded from $480/ton to $554/ton.
Supply Dynamics
According to Mysteel (February 25, 2026), China's liquefied ethane commercial volume continued to rise in early 2026, with January total commercial volume reaching its highest level since July 2024.
Applications
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Ethylene production via steam cracking
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Refrigerant (R170) applications
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Petrochemical feedstock
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Calibration gas standards
Sources:
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SCI99 (Zhuochuang Information), February 2026
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Sohu, April 8, 2026
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Mysteel (Nenghua), February 25, 2026 & April 3, 2026
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SunSirs, February 2, 2026