Fluctuating Feedstock Prices Oscillate the Global MTBE Market

Beijing, China- In the expectation of fluctuations in feedstock Methanol prices, the Methyl Tert-butyl Ether (MTBE) market oscillated. In Asia, the feedstock market showcased a bearish trend due to adequate Methanol supply and feeble demand. Likewise, the MTBE market also declined with trading activities on an immediate basis.

With the week ending on 17th Feb, the MTBE price in China slumped to USD 1060/ton FOB Dalian with a weekly decline of 2.30%. In terms of the feedstock market, Methanol prices declined due to moderating optimism about China's post-pandemic recovery. China's MTBE prices rose after the Lunar New Year holiday, but the momentum faded as sluggish domestic and overseas demand hindered downstream manufacturers. Spot cargo offers were also limited to India and Turkey due to weak trading fundamentals. Regarding the downstream market, the demand for MTBE from Gasoline blending declined, and suppliers were purchasing the product on a need-to basis.

In the US, MTBE prices gained a stance on a stronger feedstock MTBE market and faster than expected recovery of the downstream Gasoline blending sector. The spread between feedstock Methanol and MTBE prices also started to increase gradually, maintaining the profit margin and sales among the enterprises. With the week ending on 17th Feb, the price of MTBE in the US surged to USD 1124/ton FOB USGC with a weekly incline of 1%.

According to ChemAnalyst, the price of MTBE in the global market will oscillate as per the fluctuations in the Methanol market. In the Asian market, the MTBE market will remain plunged under the influence of a healthy influx of Methanol from Saudi Arabia, reducing the production cost among enterprises. However, the limited product availability of MTBE and rising bids and offers from downstream enterprises will further support the bearish price trend. In terms of the logistics market, sufficient container availability and weak demand resulted in bearish cost support. It is anticipated that the spot freight charges will drop along with long-term transportation challenges.