Platts proposes to specify minimum acceptable density in its European naphtha assessments

Platts, part of S&P Global Commodity Insights, proposes to specify a minimum acceptable density of 0.67 kg/l for naphtha reflected in its European naphtha assessments and associated Market on Close process, effective Oct. 1, 2024, based on market feedback and in line with observed naphtha flows in the Northwest European market.

Following this proposed change, the Platts assessments for naphtha cargoes CIF NWE (PAAAL00), naphtha cargoes FOB Med (PAAAI00), naphtha cargoes CIF Med (PAAAH00) and naphtha barges FOB Rotterdam (PAAAM00) would reflect open specification material with a minimum 65% paraffin content and a density range of 0.67 to 0.735 kg/l. Other qualities may be taken into account for cargoes reported in the MOC process but these may be normalized to Platts specifications in line with existing methodology.

For details of Platts European naphtha methodology and reflected specifications including mercury levels, oxygenate content and chloride limit, please refer to the online methodology guide, available here.

Please send any comments by Sept. 3, 2024, to europe_products@spglobal.com with a CC to pricegroup@spglobal.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.