According to the Commodity Market Analysis System of Shengyi Society, the toluene market fluctuated and fell from August 4th to August 11th, 2025. On August 4th, the benchmark price of toluene was 5580 yuan/ton, and on August 11th, the benchmark price of toluene was 5560 yuan/ton, a decrease of 0.36%. The toluene market has slightly decreased in this cycle. Affected by fluctuations in crude oil prices, the toluene market experienced a narrow decline this week. The ex factory prices in Shandong region generally fell slightly during the week, mainly for personal use, and the supply in the region is relatively tight. During the week, the supply in East and South China was relatively loose, and the weakening of crude oil affected market sentiment. The listing price of Sinopec in South China was lowered, leading to a general decline in spot market prices.

Cost wise: As of the 8th, the settlement price of the September WTI crude oil futures contract in the United States was $63.88 per barrel. The settlement price of Brent crude oil futures for October contract is $66.59 per barrel. The negative factors in the crude oil market, on the one hand, OPEC+announced a cumulative production increase of 2.3 million barrels per day by September, marking the organization’s exit from the plan to reduce production by over 2.2 million barrels per day one year ahead of schedule, which is bearish for the oil market. On the other hand, the geopolitical situation in the Middle East is affecting the oil market, and global macro data is bearish. Coupled with the fundamental impact of the upcoming off-season for US summer demand, crude oil market prices will continue to be under pressure.
Supply side:
Sinopec’s toluene enterprise is operating normally, with stable production of equipment and many products for personal use, resulting in stable production and sales. As of August 11th, East China Company quoted 5500 yuan/ton, North China Company quoted 5500 yuan/ton, South China Company quoted 5650-5700 yuan/ton, and Central China Company quoted 5600 yuan/ton.
Demand side:
On August 11th, Sinopec Sales Company temporarily stabilized the price of xylene, with the current execution price of 7000 yuan/ton. This price is implemented in East China, North China, Central China, and South China. Yangzi Petrochemical, Zhenhai Petrochemical and other units are operating stably and sales are normal. The price remains unchanged compared to August 4th. As of August 8th, the closing prices of the xylene market in Asia were $814-816/ton FOB Korea and $839-841/ton CFR China, a decrease of $20/ton from August 1st.
Market forecast: The crude oil market is expected to experience wide fluctuations in the near future, with a weak market sentiment. There has been no significant change in the supply side recently, and the demand side still leans towards rigid demand. Overall, the supply and demand situation is weak, and it is expected that the toluene market will mainly experience narrow fluctuations.