Regional Price Divergence
Naphtha pricing has seen significant regional shifts this month. North American prices are down 5.6%, currently averaging around $510 per ton. Meanwhile, Northeast Asia continues to command a premium due to higher petrochemical demand. This divergence is driven by differing levels of regional crude oil availability. Overall, the market remains in a consolidation phase as it tracks the downward movement of the broader energy index.
Petrochemical Outlook and Market Growth
Despite the recent price softness in Western markets, the long-term outlook for naphtha is positive. Mordor Intelligence reports that the global market is growing at a CAGR of 3.6%, fueled by plastic and chemical manufacturing. The petrochemical sector faces strong supply in 2026, which is expected to keep prices relatively flat, providing a cost-effective environment for plastics producers who use naphtha as their primary feedstock.