Ethylene markets in Asia began the week with a split performance, as Southeast Asia registered modest gains while Northeast Asia remained largely unchanged.
On Monday, CFR Southeast Asia ethylene prices were assessed at USD 830–840/mt, marking an increase of USD 5/mt from Friday. A regional industry source told that the rise was supported by improved buying sentiment, with more converters stepping into the market after weeks of subdued activity. Traders suggested that the uptick reflected cautious restocking rather than a structural shift, though the sentiment was viewed positively given the persistent challenges in the petrochemical sector.
In contrast, CFR Northeast Asia ethylene prices were assessed flat at USD 835–845/mt. Market players noted that steady supply and weak downstream demand kept price movements muted in the region, with buyers remaining reluctant to commit to higher-priced cargoes. Despite ongoing cracker maintenance at certain plants, ample inventories limited any significant upside pressure.
Analysts pointed out that the regional divergence underscores the localized nature of market dynamics. While Southeast Asia saw slight momentum from restocking and short-term demand, Northeast Asia’s fundamentals remain weighed down by sluggish consumption in key derivatives such as polyethylene and monoethylene glycol.
With September approaching, traders are closely monitoring whether seasonal demand in packaging and agriculture will help lift sentiment further in Southeast Asia, while Northeast Asia may need more pronounced supply disruptions or stronger downstream recovery to break its current stalemate.
