Styrene monomer (SM) prices trend downward in Asia

SM prices journeyed southward in Asia on Monday.

An industry source in Asia informed a Polymerupdate team member, “Prices in the Asian markets were evaluated lower, mainly influenced by weak buying interest and restricted trading activity throughout the region. The downward pressure was additionally bolstered by a drop in upstream benzene prices, which softened even as crude oil values showed strengthening trends.”

On Monday, FOB Korea SM prices were assessed at the USD 890-900/mt levels, lower by USD (-30/mt) from Friday's assessed levels.

CFR China SM prices on Monday were assessed at the USD 900-910/mt levels, down USD (-30/mt) from Friday.

Meanwhile, upstream benzene prices on Monday were assessed at the USD 735-745/mt FOB Korea levels, lower by USD (-10/mt) from Friday.