Ethylene prices in Europe began the week on a firmer note, supported by reports of tighter availability and steady buying activity across the region. Market participants noted that supply constraints, combined with healthy derivative demand, provided upward momentum after weeks of relatively muted trading.
An industry source in Europe, “Prices moved higher as reports pointed to tighter product availability and strong demand in the region.” Traders added that the uptick reflected both reduced availability from domestic producers and more active purchasing from downstream sectors, which has helped keep spot values buoyant.
On Monday, CIF Northwest Europe (NWE) ethylene prices were assessed at USD 815–825/mt, up by USD 5/mt from Friday. FD NWE prices followed the same trend, climbing to EUR 740–750/mt, an increase of EUR 5/mt over the prior session. Market players remarked that even modest gains signaled a firmer tone in European markets, particularly as participants prepare for September contract discussions.
By contrast, sentiment in Asia was more subdued. CFR Northeast Asia ethylene prices were assessed unchanged at USD 835–845/mt. Ample availability and weak fundamentals in key downstream products such as polyethylene and monoethylene glycol kept spot activity restrained, with buyers holding back from aggressive procurement despite the stability in upstream crude values.
The divergence between Europe and Asia highlights regional variations in supply-demand dynamics. While Europe is seeing tighter supply and restocking momentum, Asia continues to be weighed down by overcapacity and cautious buying behavior, leaving prices steady for now.
