The toluene market experienced a slight decline during the period from December 1st to December 15th, 2025. The benchmark toluene price on December 1st was 1.5% lower than the benchmark price on December 15th. The domestic toluene market saw a downward trend during this period. Supply remained largely unchanged, with overall supply relatively stable. Demand continued to be based on immediate needs for restocking, with stable demand from the oil blending and chemical industries. The aromatics market weakened recently, putting pressure on the spot market, which saw narrow-range fluctuations and a downward trend. At the end of last week, spot prices in Shandong province experienced a slight decline, and market sentiment was weak.
Cost side: As of December 12th, the settlement price of the January WTI crude oil futures contract was $57.44 per barrel. The settlement price of the February Brent crude oil futures contract was $61.12 per barrel. This week’s crude oil price movement saw an initial decline followed by a rise. At the beginning of the week, regional tensions eased, and international oil prices were low. Later, OPEC+ oil-producing countries temporarily halted production increases, leading to a rise in crude oil prices.
Brent-WTI crude oil price comparison chart:
Supply side:
Sinopec’s toluene plant is operating normally, with stable production. Most of the products are for internal use, and production and sales are stable.
Demand side:
On December 15, Sinopec Sales Company kept the price of paraxylene stable at 7,200 yuan/ton. This price is applied in East China, North China, Central China and South China. The Yangzi Petrochemical and Zhenhai Petrochemical plants are operating stably and sales are normal.
PX price trend chart:
Market Outlook: While overall supply-side pressure in the toluene market remains manageable, spot prices in Shandong experienced a slight decline over the weekend. Coupled with a lack of substantial positive factors to boost the market today, trading activity has become more cautious. In summary, toluene and xylene prices are likely to face downward pressure in the short term; however, support from the cost side is expected to limit their downside potential.
Post time: Dec-16-2025