During the current period (August 20–26, 2026), the average profit of China's non-integrated styrene units was -471 yuan/ton, with the weekly loss narrowing by 87 yuan/ton compared with the prior week, a decrease of 15.55% in loss magnitude. On a weekly basis, losses at non-integrated producers have somewhat recovered; however, overall profitability remains weak. Producers' willingness to proactively raise operating rates has not improved noticeably, and industry operating rates are still under pressure, leaving limited room for overall operating rate increases.
China styrene non-integrated unit profit weekly comparison (yuan/ton)
| Type | Week of Aug 26 | Week of Aug 19 | Change | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Non-integrated unit | -471.29 | -558.06 | 86.77 | 15.55% |
China styrene non-integrated unit price, cost, and profit comparison with the same period last year (unit: yuan/ton)
| 2026/8/26 | 2025/8/26 | Difference | Unit | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Benzene | 7880 | 6055 | 1825 | yuan/ton |
| Ethylene CFR Northeast Asia | 1050 | 840 | 210 | USD/ton |
| Styrene | 8970 | 7325 | 1645 | yuan/ton |
| Styrene cost | 9388.60 | 7603 | 1786 | yuan/ton |
| Non-integrated unit profit | -419 | -278 | -141 | yuan/ton |
On the raw material side, the supply recovery trend for benzene is clear, while demand support is limited. In addition, expectations of easing geopolitical tensions are pressuring costs. As a result, the benzene market is expected to fluctuate weakly next week, with its cost support for styrene weakening. Styrene supply itself is expected to increase modestly. Although demand performance is lackluster, in a low-inventory environment there is no significant pressure on fundamentals. Meanwhile, reports of export negotiations have increased, boosting market confidence. At the same time, non-integrated units still bear certain cost pressure. It is expected that the processing profit of non-integrated units may see a slight recovery next week.
As of this week, the average profit of China's styrene non-integrated units has increased slightly. Under the current profit level, production and sales at non-integrated units remain under pressure. Rigid cost support from the raw material side persists, providing bottom support for styrene prices.
Sample description: On the day of data release, theoretical profit is monitored based on raw material prices and mainstream styrene transaction prices in China's major styrene-producing regions, as compiled by Chempricehub Information.
Term explanation: Non-integrated profit refers to the production profit of styrene producers operating non-integrated units that procure raw materials externally. It is calculated as the actual spot transaction price in the mainstream market minus the total per-ton cost and additional expenses (excluding financial expenses).
Statistical scope: The styrene non-integrated profit data from Chempricehub Information is first-hand statistical data, covering domestic (mainland) non-integrated styrene producers in China. The statistics are compiled on a daily basis and released on working days every Thursday from 15:00 to 17:00.
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