On June 25, Asian petrochemical markets exhibited divergent trends between aromatics and olefins . Paraxylene (PX) prices maintained their firm tone at $1,120–1,140 per tonne CFR China, supported by persistent tightness in mixed xylene feedstock and robust downstream purified terephthalic acid (PTA) operating rates above 85% . Benzene markets softened to $960 per tonne FOB Korea, pressured by reduced demand from styrene producers amid narrower margins . Olefin markets faced downward pressure, with ethylene falling to $840 per tonne CFR Northeast Asia as a wave of new cracking capacity from China and the US entered the market . Propylene held steady at $810 per tonne CFR, supported by limited supply from the Middle East and healthy polypropylene demand . Butadiene prices surged 5% to $1,350 per tonne CFR, driven by strong demand from the tire industry and unexpected shutdowns in Southeast Asia . Market participants noted that June-July is typically a slower season for Asia petrochemicals, with buyers expected to remain on the sidelines until clearer demand signals emerge from the downstream sector .