US Gulf Coast petrochemical prices have reversed their recent rally, with key products like ethylene and propylene falling as high costs curb buying interest. The mixed price movements signal a cautious market for overseas buyers, who should monitor supply constraints and shifting demand dynamics in the weeks ahead.
Price declines for ethylene and propylene
According to Bloomberg data cited by The Guru on April 21, 2026, ethylene on the US Gulf Coast spot market fell to 28 cents per pound on April 17, down 5.5 cents week-on-week. This marks the first weekly decline in eight weeks. Polymer-grade propylene (PGP) dropped to around 45 cents per pound, a decrease of 16.5 cents, while refinery-grade propylene fell sharply to 39 cents from 55.5 cents.
Prices still above pre-conflict levels
Despite the recent drops, ethylene and PGP remain well above levels seen before the Ukraine conflict, which were 18 cents and 33.5 cents per pound, respectively. This elevated pricing is squeezing buyers, with some end-users reducing purchases to minimum levels to manage costs. The high price environment is contributing to signs of demand softening across the supply chain.
Mixed performance across other chemicals
Butadiene held firm at 76 cents per pound, its highest since September 2022, and has not declined at all this year. Methanol rose to $1.785 per gallon. Benzene fell to $4.741 per gallon from $5.051, and toluene edged down to $3.781 per gallon. Among NGLs, ethane was flat at 20.3 cents per gallon, propane rose to 74.5 cents from 73 cents, and butane slipped to 99.7 cents from $1.014.
What buyers should watch
Overseas importers and distributors should closely track US Gulf Coast spot prices for ethylene and propylene, as further declines could signal a broader demand slowdown. However, with global supply still constrained, medium-term upward pressure may persist. Buyers are advised to evaluate contract terms and inventory levels carefully, especially for products like butadiene and methanol that remain strong.
Source: Read the original report | Published: April 21, 2026