Market Overview
For the Quarter Ending March 2026
Ethylbenzene Prices in North America
In the USA, the Ethylbenzene Price Index fell by 9.36 % quarter-over-quarter, citing margin normalization effects.
The average Ethylbenzene price for the quarter was approximately USD 1255.67/MT , reflecting elevated export demand.
Ethylbenzene Spot Price strengthened in March as tight benzene availability and ethylene costs tightened balances.
Ethylbenzene Price Forecast indicates near-term firmness from export bookings and geopolitical freight and insurance pressures.
Ethylbenzene Production Cost Trend rose sharply as ethylene and benzene feedstock inflation pressured producer margins.
Ethylbenzene Demand Outlook remains firm from styrene and polystyrene sectors, supporting sustained domestic export buying.
Ethylbenzene Price Index movements reflected lean inventories and accelerated shipments, reducing spot availability, supporting offers.
Operational stability at Gulf Coast plants enabled pass-through, sustaining FOB pricing despite logistic insurance headwinds.
Why did the price of Ethylbenzene change in March 2026 in North America?
Feedstock inflation from ethylene and benzene sharply increased production costs and supported higher export offers.
Geopolitical tensions raised freight times, insurance costs, and global aromatics tightness, constraining supply chains, benchmarks.
Lean inventories and export demand reduced domestic availability, enabling producers to maintain elevated FOB pricing.
Ethylbenzene Prices in APAC
In China, the Ethylbenzene Price Index rose by 4.67 % quarter-over-quarter, driven by feedstock cost pressure.
The average Ethylbenzene price for the quarter was approximately USD 1473/MT, reported across FOB Shanghai.
Ethylbenzene Production Cost Trend accelerated as naphtha and benzene inflation compressed producer cash margins regionally.
Ethylbenzene Spot Price firmed on reduced operating rates and stronger export procurement from regional buyers.
Ethylbenzene Demand Outlook remains supportive from styrenics and Southeast Asian restocking ahead of second-quarter cycles.
Ethylbenzene Price Forecast highlights upside risks from geopolitical freight premium increases and constrained benzene supplies.
Ethylbenzene Price Index sensitivity rose with yuan depreciation and elevated shipping insurance, affecting export margins.
Inventory drawdowns across East China hubs limited spot availability, amplifying volatility in Ethylbenzene Spot Price.
Why did the price of Ethylbenzene change in March 2026 in APAC?
Feedstock cost escalation from naphtha and benzene increased production expenses, pressuring margins and export offers.
Environmental inspections reduced operating rates at older units, tightening merchant supply and lowering spot volumes.
Geopolitical tensions raised freight insurance and route costs, prompting precautionary restocking and stronger import demand.
Ethylbenzene Prices in Europe
In Europe, the Ethylbenzene Price Index increased in March 2026 quarter-over-quarter, supported by rising feedstock costs and stable downstream demand.
The average Ethylbenzene price remained firm, reflecting higher import parity and steady contract pricing across regional markets.
The Ethylbenzene Spot Price strengthened as tighter benzene supply and higher energy costs constrained prompt availability.
The Ethylbenzene Production Cost Trend rose due to increased benzene and ethylene prices along with elevated energy expenses.
The Ethylbenzene Demand Outlook remained stable to firm, supported by styrenics and polymer production demand.
The Ethylbenzene Price Forecast suggests continued firmness due to feedstock cost pressure and balanced supply-demand conditions.
The Price Index was supported by reduced inventories and cautious restocking strategies among buyers.
Import dependency and elevated freight costs continued to influence pricing sentiment across European markets.
Why did Ethylbenzene prices change in March 2026 in Europe?
Rising benzene and ethylene costs increased the Ethylbenzene Production Cost Trend, supporting higher supplier pricing.
Logistics constraints and import delays reduced Ethylbenzene Spot Price availability in the region.
Stable downstream demand from styrenics maintained consumption levels, preventing inventory buildup and supporting Price Index growth.
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Product Description
Ethylbenzene is an aromatic hydrocarbon with the chemical formula C₆H₅C₂H₅, consisting of a benzene ring substituted with an ethyl group, appearing as a colorless, flammable liquid with a characteristic sweet odor. It is primarily produced through the alkylation of benzene with ethylene and serves as a key intermediate in the petrochemical industry, most notably as the principal feedstock for styrene production, which is subsequently polymerized into polystyrene, ABS, and other plastics. Ethylbenzene is also used as a solvent in paints, coatings, and adhesives, and as an additive in gasoline to increase octane rating. It is moderately toxic and highly flammable, requiring careful handling and storage, and is subject to environmental and occupational exposure regulations due to its potential health effects, including irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory system, as well as long-term concerns with chronic exposure.
Product Specific Details
CAS No.
100-41-4
HS Code
29026000
Grade
Technical Grade (≥98.5%)
Contract Size
5-10 MT
Packaging Type
ISO Tank
