Subscriber note: Platts to amend Asia gasoline distillation, density specs

Platts proposes to amend the specifications for gasoline reflected in its FOB Singapore gasoline 92 RON unleaded, 95 RON unleaded and 97 RON unleaded assessments. The proposed changes follow on from a consultation on specifications launched by Platts on May 3, and reflects feedback received since that time. Under its proposed changes, Platts would raise the minimum T50 distillation temperature threshold for Singapore gasoline assessments to 80 degrees Celsius, from the current 75 degrees Celsius. Platts would also introduce a new minimum density requirement of 0.720 g/ml. Platts proposes to bring the amended specifications into effect from January 1, 2014. These changes reflect evolving quality standards in Singapore, where gasoline trading reflects supply and demand across the Asia Pacific and Middle East. Gasoline bought and sold in Singapore is commonly blended to cater to the requirements in key regional markets. Singapore's specifications evolve to ensure that it can continue to serve as a generic blend that is up to date with broader industry standards. The proposed specification would enhance the ability of gasoline meeting Platts' FOB Singapore 92 RON specifications to be blended to meet Indonesia's import specification for 88 RON gasoline, while still maintaining its marketability in other key regional markets. Exports of 88 RON gasoline to Indonesia accounted for 33% of the gross gasoline outflow FOB Singapore in the first eight months of 2013. Please send further comments and feedback to Platts by September 27, at asia_products@platts.com with a cc to 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.