Propylene markets in Europe began the week on a firmer note, with spot values registering modest gains as improved buying sentiment provided support. Traders reported that regional demand, while not exceptionally strong, was sufficient to lift prices after several weeks of subdued trading activity.
An industry source in Europe told Polymerduniya, “Prices gained on the back of healthy regional buying sentiment.” Market players indicated that converters had begun to step back into the market to secure limited volumes, offering a measure of stability to fundamentals even as overall supply remained adequate.
On Monday, spot polymer grade propylene prices were assessed at EUR 780–790/mt FD Northwest Europe, up EUR 5/mt from Friday’s levels. Similarly, CIF NWE propylene prices rose by the same margin, assessed at EUR 780–790/mt. The modest increase was viewed as a sign of cautious optimism, with buyers showing more willingness to transact despite lingering concerns over downstream demand from polypropylene and other derivatives.
By contrast, Asia’s propylene market remained largely unchanged at the start of the week. FOB Korea prices were assessed at USD 750–760/mt, steady from Friday’s assessment. Market sentiment across the region stayed muted, with supply deemed sufficient and downstream sectors continuing to struggle with lackluster consumption.
Analysts noted that the divergence between Europe and Asia highlights the role of local fundamentals in shaping short-term trends. While Asian propylene prices are weighed down by sluggish demand from the polypropylene and acrylonitrile sectors, Europe is seeing slight restocking activity ahead of the September contract discussions, lending prices a modest boost.
The outlook remains tentative, with industry observers cautioning that gains in Europe could be limited unless downstream offtake improves meaningfully. However, the latest uptick suggests that buyers are beginning to cautiously re-enter the market after a quiet summer, setting the stage for potentially more active trading in the weeks ahead.
