According to a source in Taiwan, PTT Global Chemical has reportedly shut down its No.1 phenol and acetone plant in Map Ta Phut, Thailand, due to a mechanical issue. The stoppage is believed to have begun around September 15, 2025, though how long the unit will remain offline is still unconfirmed and no official statement has yet clarified the duration of the shutdown.
This is a significant development for the petrochemical markets, since the No.1 unit carries a production capacity of 250,000 metric tons per year for phenol and 150,000 metric tons per year for acetone. Such volumes are material enough to influence supply tightness, especially if the downtime extends for weeks.
Industry watchers are now closely monitoring downstream supply chains, particularly makers of resins, adhesives, coatings, and other phenol- or acetone-based products, to gauge potential ripple effects from this shutdown. The mechanical trouble raises questions about spare part availability, contractor readiness, and how quickly operations can be restored under existing maintenance protocols and safety checks.
Should the unit remain offline for a prolonged period, there may be upward price adjustments in regional phenol and acetone markets, especially in Asia, where Thailand is a major supplier. Buyers may also begin curtailing usage or looking for alternate sourcing, which could further strain margins and availability until full operations resume.
