processing...

Blog Details

Discussions hampered by bearish downstream demand  | High naphtha costs to keep cracker operating prices low

Discussions hampered by bearish downstream demand | High naphtha costs to keep cracker operating prices low

Feb 15, 2023

- Discussions hampered by bearish downstream demand- High naphtha costs to keep
cracker operating prices low





There were not many discussions in Asian
propylene markets on Feb. 14, because supply was tight despite operating rate
cuts throughout the region. A China-based trader stated that
bearish downstream demand hampered further discussions as the recovery in the
key sector of polypropylene remains slow. The trader
stated that although some finished goods facilities are still being built, PP
demand will improve over time. However, it is still a long way before peak
season starts. According to a northeast Asian producer the
prices were supply-driven as most naphtha-fed steam crackeders in Asia were
operating at 70% to 80%. High prices of feedstock naphtha
mean that Asian crackers will not increase their operating rates in the short
term. The prices...

Exclusive market movement data, shipping lineups, demand signals and pricing rationale continue in full report.

Unlock complete article access with a paid account.

Continue Reading With Membership

This is a preview. Login and activate a paid plan to read the complete article.

Login to Continue