Propylene prices remained unchanged across Europe on Wednesday, as sluggish buying activity and fragile downstream demand continued to weigh on market sentiment. Industry participants reported that despite stable assessments, overall mood in the market stayed cautious, reflecting persistent uncertainty in the broader economic environment.
An industry source in Europe, who requested anonymity, told a team member that buyers have adopted a wait-and-see approach in the face of ongoing market volatility. “Although prices held steady, sentiment was weak as poor demand fundamentals weighed on downstream sectors,” the source explained, highlighting a lack of urgency among converters and traders.
CIF Northwest Europe (NWE) propylene prices were assessed at EUR 770–780 per metric ton, unchanged from Tuesday’s levels. Spot polymer-grade propylene prices in the region also held flat at EUR 770–780/mt on a free-delivered (FD) NWE basis. The stability came even as feedstock costs remained unpredictable and derivative markets showed little sign of improvement.
Across Asia, the trend was equally subdued. Propylene prices in the FOB Korea market were assessed on Wednesday at USD 765–775/mt, also steady compared with the previous day. Regional traders cited balanced supply and muted demand as key factors keeping the market in a narrow trading range.
Market analysts noted that both regions are grappling with similar challenges: sluggish downstream sectors, cautious procurement strategies, and a lack of significant production disruptions to drive price changes. Until there is a clear shift in consumption patterns or an external shock to feedstock markets, propylene prices are expected to remain range-bound on both sides of the globe.
