Aromatics

　 Benzene prices on an FOB Korea basis and paraxylene (PX) prices on a CFR Northeast Asia basis both strengthened, reflecting a rise in crude prices amid renewed tensions in the Middle East. Logistics disruptions of crude oil and naphtha from the Middle East to Asia also fueled concerns over aromatics production in Asia.

Olefins

　 Ethylene prices on a CFR Northeast Asia basis and CFR Southeast Asia basis significantly extended gains, along with a rise in benchmark feedstock crude oil and naphtha prices. In South Korea, one naphtha cracker of one company was shut down due to production restructuring, and two naphtha crackers of two companies are scheduled to be shut down for turnaround in October. In Japan, unplanned shutdowns of naphtha crackers took place, and a sense of tight supply for ethylene also pushed up prices.

　 The Asian propylene market softened, reflecting a lack of demand. In the CFR Northeast Asia market, despite a rise in crude oil prices, market sentiments weakened due to scarce buying interest from Chinese end-users. In the FOB Korea and CFR Southeast Asia markets, no bids or offers were heard, and a wait-and-see mood prevailed.

　 In the Asian butadiene market, selling ideas reportedly rose significantly, reflecting a sharp surge in crude oil prices. However, it was difficult to conclude deals at flat prices. On an FOB Korea basis, one petrochemical maker reportedly sold a cargo for October loading at a price linked to market quotations.

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