Basic chemicals remained under mixed pressure, with solvents including Acetone, Benzene, and Isopropyl alcohol continuing to weaken amid cautious downstream demand. Meanwhile, Boric acid and Phosphoric Acid posted moderate gains, reflecting firmer industrial procurement activity. Acetonitrile prices declined nearly 10% on a weekly basis, but monthly gains remained above 15%, suggesting the market is still trading at historically elevated levels despite recent corrections.

Fine chemicals displayed stronger volatility than bulk chemicals. Lauric acid and stearic acid continued to rise on tightening fatty acid supply, while retinol weakened further amid soft pharmaceutical and feed additive demand. Dimethyl sulfoxide and sodium metabisulfite remained relatively stable with limited short-term trading momentum.

Energy markets turned weaker overall after WTI crude oil dropped 7.22%, placing pressure on upstream petrochemical costs. Gasoline and asphalt also softened, while anthracite and kerosene maintained upward momentum due to regional supply tightness and transportation demand recovery.

Plastics, rubber, and other industrial materials remained relatively weak overall on May 26, with ABS continuing to face downstream demand pressure and posting a 9% monthly decline. Carbon and Silica prices also edged lower, reflecting cautious procurement sentiment across filler, rubber, and industrial materials markets. Despite limited short-term volatility, buyers continued to monitor feedstock costs and export demand trends for potential market stabilization signals.