- PVC decline hits ethylene demand- China: Buying Indications Fall



The slowdown in downstream
markets caused a decline in sentiment in Asian ethylene markets. This led to a
weaker mood on Oct. 18. One
key Northeast Asian PVC producer reported November-loading prices $50-$70/mt
higher month-on-month, which affected buyers' appetite for ethylene. The trader said that MTO operators were cautious about buying
amid a slight fall in methanol prices. According
to reports, a major MTO facility would be closed during the week. However, no
date was available at the time. China's
traders expected MTO facilities to shut down and lower operating rates. This
could increase ethylene demand, especially with more competitive rates. Due to weakness in derivative markets, buying signals were
slightly lower than the previous week. The
benchmark C+F Japan Naphtha marker was up $4.50/mt to $666/mt...