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Petrochemical Weekly: Mixed polymer margins; weaker aromatics

Petrochemical Weekly: Mixed polymer margins; weaker aromatics

Polymer spreads were largely stable WoW. PP-naphtha was the strongest performer, rising 5% WoW to US$375/t on firmer PP prices and balanced regional supply. ABS remained the weakest, with spreads flat WoW at US$919/t amid persistent oversupply and soft demand from consumer goods and automotive sectors. Meanwhile, aromatics spreads weakened, led by PX-naphtha (-8% WoW) and benzene-naphtha (-5% WoW), due to lower product prices, easing energy costs, and weak downstream demand. Several PTA plants in East China have announced production cuts and lower operating rates. The integrated PET spread rose 16% WoW to a 6-week high of US$88/t, supported by higher PET resin prices.