The toluene market experienced minimal fluctuations from September 8 to 15, 2025. The benchmark toluene price on September 8 remained unchanged from that on September 15. Domestic toluene market volatility was limited during this period, with slight variations across different regions. In Shandong, driven by the toluene-xylene price differential, downstream purchasing activity increased, with strong activity during the week and a slight increase in quotes from major refineries. The East China market remained relatively stable, with weak downstream market participation. The South China market lacked clear news guidance, resulting in limited market fluctuations. Overall, the toluene market experienced limited volatility this week.
Cost: As of September 12, international crude oil futures closed higher, with the October contract for U.S. WTI crude oil futures settling at $62.69 per barrel. The November contract for Brent crude oil futures settled at $66.99 per barrel.
Brent-WTI crude oil price trend comparison chart:
Supply:
Sinopec’s toluene operations are operating normally, with stable production and a majority of its products used for internal consumption. Production and sales remain stable.
Demand Side:
On September 15th, Sinopec Sales Company reported a temporary stabilization of paraxylene prices at 7,200 yuan/ton. This price applies to all regions in East China, North China, Central China, and South China. Plants at Yangzi Petrochemical and Zhenhai Petrochemical are operating stably, and sales are normal. As of September 4th, the closing price of paraxylene in the Asian market was $807-809/ton FOB Korea and $832-834/ton CFR China.
Price chart:
Market Forecast: Recent crude oil market fluctuations have been minimal, with limited impact on the spot market, and the macroeconomic outlook is relatively stable. From a supply and demand perspective, the recent performance of the blending market in some regions has been strong, providing some support, but overall downstream demand is generally mediocre. The market is expected to remain stable in the near term, with limited volatility.
Post time: Sep-16-2025