Both Supply and Demand Weak, Toluene Market Experiences Volatile Decline

December 15th, according to reports

According to the commodity market analysis system, the toluene market in China showed a slight downward fluctuation from December 1 to December 15, 2025. The benchmark price of toluene on December 1 was 5,330 CNY/ton, and on December 15, it was 5,250 CNY/ton, a decrease of 1.5%. During this period, the toluene market in China experienced a fluctuating decline. The supply remained relatively stable with no significant changes, and the demand side continued to replenish stocks as needed. The demand from the fuel blending and chemical industries remained stable. The recent weakening of the aromatics market put pressure on the spot market, leading to a narrow range of downward fluctuations. Last weekend, there was a slight fluctuation and decline in the spot price in Shandong, resulting in a subdued market atmosphere.

Cost Perspective: According to the commodity market analysis system, as of December 12, the settlement price for the January WTI crude oil futures contract in the U.S. was $57.44 per barrel, while the settlement price for the February Brent crude oil futures contract was $61.12 per barrel. During this period, crude oil prices initially fell and then rose. At the beginning of the period, regional tensions eased somewhat; meanwhile, weakening U.S. demand and ongoing U.S. tariff issues weighed on global economic growth and demand expectations, pushing international oil prices to lower levels. Later, OPEC+ oil-producing countries temporarily postponed increasing production, and with prospects for a geopolitical peace agreement remaining slim, geopolitical factors drove crude oil prices higher.

Supply side:

Sinopec's toluene enterprises are operating normally, with stable production. Most of the products are for internal use, and production and sales are balanced. As of December 12, the East China company's quotation is 5,250 CNY/ton, the North China company's quotation is 5,150-5,200 CNY/ton, the South China company's quotation is 5,300-5,400 CNY/ton, and the Central China company's quotation is 5,250 CNY/ton.