SUBSCRIBER NOTE: Platts proposes to end US CIF naphtha assessment

Platts proposes to end its US Gulf Coast naphtha CIF cargo assessment with effect from January 2, 2015.

This proposed suspension follows a formal consultation that Platts opened on the future of the assessment on September 24, 2013.

This proposed discontinuation reflects a significant change in market conditions.

Significant growth in naphtha production, a result of liquids-rich gas drilling and light crude oil domestic production, has shifted the US from a net importer to a net exporter of light naphtha and natural gasoline, and these exports have increased substantially as rising US supplies will continue to overwhelm demand.

Platts launched on January 2, 2014, a new naphtha assessment for cargoes loading at US Gulf Coast terminals on an FOB basis.

Please send all comments by April 30, 2014, to americas_products@platts.com and pricegroup@platts.com.

For written comments, please provide a clear indication if comments are not intended for publication by Platts for public viewing.

Platts will consider all comments received and will make comments not marked as confidential available upon request.