This week, Styrene monomer prices decreased in the European region.An industry source in Europe, on condition of anonymity, informed a Polymerupdate team member, “Spot prices for European styrene saw a significant decrease this week, primarily due to escalating trade tensions and increasing uncertainty regarding tariffs. This decline was shaped by various factors, as traders and market participants adopted a more cautious approach amid rising geopolitical tensions among major economies, raising fears of potential trade conflicts. Historically, such uncertainty has resulted in a decrease in demand, as buyers become reluctant to commit to purchases. The impending threat of tariff adjustments or the establishment of new trade barriers has further heightened market anxiety, with stakeholders worried about the implications these changes could have on the pricing and availability of styrene, an essential raw material utilized in numerous industrial applications, including plastics, resins, and insulation products.Moreover, the anticipated drop in contract prices followed a consistent decline in spot prices for naphtha, a crucial feedstock in styrene production. While this price adjustment may offer some financial relief to downstream sectors like plastic processors and chemical manufacturers, it simultaneously exerts pressure on styrene producers, potentially squeezing their profit margins and prompting operational evaluations or reductions in production levels.The potential for tariff modifications or the introduction of new trade barriers has further contributed to market unease, with participants expressing concerns about how these tariffs might affect the pricing and availability of styrene, a vital raw material in various industrial sectors.The source added, “In light of these developments, the overall sentiment in interconnected markets, such as polypropylene, remains wary. Factors such as weak demand from end-users, oversupply situations, and persistent volatility in feedstock prices are significantly impacting market dynamics. As uncertainty regarding trade policies and macroeconomic conditions continues, the styrene market, along with its derivatives, is anticipated to encounter ongoing challenges in the short term. Market participants are likely to adopt a cautious approach, carefully observing geopolitical events, feedstock costs, and trends in downstream consumption before committing to significant decisions.On Thursday, FOB Rotterdam SM spot prices were assessed at the USD 1320-1330/mt levels, a week on week fall of USD (-10/mt).Benzene feedstock prices on Thursday were assessed at the USD 700-710/mt FOB Rotterdam levels, steeply higher by USD (+65/mt) from last week.European styrene contract price for April 2025 has been settled at the Euro 1496/mt CIF North West Europe. This price represents a sharp fall of Euro 58/mt from its March 2025 settlement levels.
