Asia
The prices for 1,3-butadiene exhibited an oscillating trajectory in the Asian domestic market during the discussed period. Initially, the prices kept low and kept on decreasing gradually. Although the supply situation was stable, the terminal demand was bearish. Moreover, the high freight charges did contribute towards the high upstream costs, but the suppliers could not pass these costs to the consumers owing to the negative market sentiment.
However, the prices registered a rebound towards the end of August and September first week given the unrelenting geopolitical fluctuations in the market. Therein, the prices started inclining gradually as the downstream demand from the polymer industry turned positive which led to active hoarding of the products by the suppliers.
Europe
Butadiene prices in Europe trended downward throughout Q3 2024, primarily due to sluggish demand and easing upstream costs. The market saw reduced buying interest, particularly from the automotive and construction sectors. Despite high freight rates providing some cost support, sellers struggled to raise prices amid weakening supply-demand dynamics. However, the prices made a slight recovery towards the end of quarter as supply tightened and seasonal demand improved.
North America
The North American 1,3-butadiene market experienced fluctuating prices in Q3 2024. Initial price decreases were observed due to lackluster demand and falling feedstock costs. However, prices rebounded slightly mid-quarter, driven by supply constraints and improved downstream polymer industry demand. As Q3 progressed, geopolitical tensions and logistics challenges contributed to price volatility.