A surge in downstream SM values further pressured prices higher across the Asian region.

On Friday, prices of benzene were up at the USD 685/mt FOB Korea levels, a sharp week on week increase of USD 30/mt.

CFR Taiwan prices of benzene were assessed higher at the USD 690/mt levels, a rise of USD 20/mt on the week.

Firmer downstream SM rates further pushed prices higher in the region.

Downstream SM prices on Friday were at the USD 1180/mt FOB Korea levels, a whopping increase of USD 95/mt from the previous week.