In the first half of March 2025, Germany’s mixed xylene prices inched lower despite feedstock naphtha prices were fluctuating slightly higher. whereas in the USA, the mixed xylene prices were also declining in parallel with the feedstock naphtha prices. The differences in price movement between these two regions is attributed to varying domestic market conditions.

Feedstock prices trend in Germany were primarily bullish than the USA's where naphtha prices were lower. While the downstream demand from sectors like Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) and phthalic anhydride remained unchanged for both the regions ensuring consistent consumption despite the fluctuation in prices.

In Germany, the mixed xylene price slip has been stemmed from overproduction and stock build-up in early March. The apparent extra supply prompted producers to lower the cost to clear out stocks. Even though feedstock naphtha costs did not tumble, the overproduction created an imbalance that pushed prices down as firms tried to manage their stock.

The downstream demand for from Polyethylene Terephthalate (used in bottles) and phthalic anhydride (widely used for plastics like PVC) remained consistent.  Demand was steady from both industries as they strongly rely on mixed xylene despite price fluctuations. This consistent demand aided to keep the market from derailing, which would have otherwise happened due to the surplus supply.

In the USA, mixed xylene prices declined in early March as feedstock naphtha prices fell. Since naphtha prices fell, the production cost of mixed xylene also reduced, resulting in a price cut by producers. The decrease in prices showed a close link between the costs of the feedstock and the final price of mixed xylene in the market.

Despite the price decline, demand from the downstream sectors, including Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), and phthalic anhydride were stable. Both industries rely on mixed xylene as an important feedstock. The stable demand from these end-users despite price change helped keep consumption of mixed xylene constant thus, maintaining market stability.

As per Chemanalyst, mixed xylene prices are likely to go up in the upcoming month in Germany and the USA. Since the price of feedstock naphtha is expected to climb, mixed xylene’s production cost would also trend higher, pushing up prices. In addition, a consistent consumption trend seen in sectors like Polyethylene Terephthalate and phthalic anhydride would support the market activity. The expected rise in mixed xylene prices is due to increasing production costs which suggests the prices could increase the following month.