Aromatics

Benzene prices on an FOB Korea basis strengthened slightly. Few players were in the market and sellers were not aggressive for trade. Meanwhile, crude prices were firm and this supported the market. Paraxylene (PX) prices on a CFR Northeast Asia basis strengthened. As no PX facilities were expected to be added for the time being, there were expectations that the market might be firm.

Olefins

Ethylene prices on a CFR Northeast Asia basis were stable. As negotiations for term supply contracts for 2026 were still ongoing, activity was muted. Term negotiations on an FOB Korea basis were apparently concluded but negotiations on a CFR Northeast Asia basis were still taking place. Under this situation, it was difficult for players to conduct spot trade.

In the Asia propylene market, activity was muted.

In the CFR Northeast Asia market, buying interest from end-users was scarce since China domestic prices were bearish. Sellers were unwilling to sell as supply was tight.

In the Southeast Asia market, trade was muted for Christmas holiday.

In the Asia butadiene market, trade was muted toward the end of the year. Since prices had risen sharply previously, end-users were concerned about high prices. End-users were not buying spot cargoes directly recently.

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