USA cosmetic-grade white oil prices rose 1.69% in early March as supply and demand pressures intensified. Brent crude surged following Middle East conflict escalation and Strait of Hormuz closure, prompting global suppliers to quote higher prices to US buyers due to elevated petroleum feedstock costs from deep refining processes. Ocean shipment disruptions compounded pressures as carriers implemented war-risk premiums and rerouted vessels around Africa, increasing transit times and freight costs reflected in Drewry's World Container Index gains. US White Oil buyers accelerated procurement for spring production schedules while initiating strategic stockpiling to hedge against further cost escalation. Market participants anticipate continued firmness in CFR Texas quotations as geopolitical uncertainties threaten sustained crude oil and freight premium pressures.
