Ethylene prices in the United States remained unchanged on Thursday, with slower purchasing activity keeping sentiment subdued. Market participants reported that the lull in buying interest reflected broader weakness in downstream derivatives such as polyethylene and styrene, where demand continues to trail expectations.
A US-based industry source told that, “Prices remained unchanged as purchasing activity slowed in the U.S.” Assessments placed ethylene at 20.50–21.00 cents/lb FD US Gulf, steady compared with Wednesday’s levels. The flat trend underscores how balanced fundamentals between ample supply and restrained consumption are limiting price momentum in the near term.
Across Asia, sentiment mirrored the US market, with CFR Northeast Asia ethylene values assessed at USD 840–850/mt, also stable from the prior session. Traders noted that while some local buying interest exists, the broader market tone remains cautious given macroeconomic headwinds and uneven downstream recovery.
The alignment of flat assessments across both the US and Asian markets reflects a global ethylene landscape where supply availability and muted derivative demand continue to anchor prices, leaving participants closely watching feedstock trends and seasonal shifts for potential triggers.
