Aromatics

Benzene prices on an FOB Korea basis and paraxylene (PX) prices on a CFR Northeast Asia basis were bullish. The market was supported by an increase in crude prices along with geopolitical risks and troubles at large-scale aromatic facilities in China.

Olefins

Ethylene prices on a CFR Northeast Asia basis softened. South Korean ethylene makers' inventories were high and selling interest was observed. On the other hand, buying interest from Northeast Asian end-users was low as demand for derivatives was weak. Under this situation, discussion levels decreased due to perceptions of slack supply/demand.

In the Asia propylene market, buying interest from end-users was seen but there were few available cargoes.

On a CFR Northeast Asia basis, end-users in Taiwan and China were showing buying interest for spot cargoes but available cargoes were limited and deals were not heard.

The Asia butadiene market was bearish.

In the CFR Northaest Asia market, demand for derivatives was not strong while cargoes from outside Asia were expected to be delivered going forward. Under this situation, demand for spot cargoes receded. Under this situation, market sentiments weakened.

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