Stability Expected Ahead
The domestic toluene market in China exhibited divergent regional movements at the close of the last trading session. In the northern markets, prices experienced minor declines initially due to weak weekend demand. However, the lower prices subsequently attracted some merchants to replenish stocks, gradually improving trading activity in the region. Conversely, the southern markets witnessed slight increases in negotiations. This uptick was supported by rising crude oil prices during the session and limited spot supply.
Key Factors Influencing Current Market Prices:
· Supply: Limited spot supply continues to provide fundamental support to the market.
· Demand: Demand from both the fuel and chemical sectors remains predominantly rigid, lacking significant incremental growth.
· Market Sentiment: Despite an upward close in crude oil, its weaker oscillation in the early session has sustained a cautious wait-and-see attitude among participants.
Market Trend Forecast:
With crude oil opening on a weaker, volatile note and persistent观望 (wait-and-see) sentiment, coupled with limited demand as the month-end approaches, market enthusiasm for active trading is subdued. It is anticipated that the domestic toluene market will stabilize overall today, with potential narrow fluctuations in个别 (individual) markets. A survey of market sentiment reveals that 50% of industry participants believe prices will hold steady. Meanwhile, 30% anticipate a price decline, expecting a drop of 10-20 RMB/ton.
Post time: Dec-30-2025