SUBSCRIBER NOTE: Platts to amend Singapore gasoline specifications

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 24, and reflects feedback received since that time. Under its proposed changes, Platts would lower the Reid Vapor Pressure specification to a maximum of 9.5 PSI, from the current 10 PSI. Platts would also reduce the maximum benzene content from 5% currently to 2.5% volume. On sulfur, Platts proposes moving all three gasoline grades down to a maximum of 150 parts per million (0.015%), from 500 ppm (0.05%) currently. Platts proposes to bring the amended specifications into effect from July 1, 2016. These changes reflect evolving quality standards into 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. Platts periodically reviews the specifications of all its assessments to ensure they are representative of the most tradeable grades. Such reviews may lead to changes to the existing specifications of an assessment, though any changes would be subject to further industry consultation ahead of any final decision. Platts last updated the specifications of these assessments in January 2014. Platts current specifications for the Singapore gasoline assessments can be viewed at http://...MethodologySpecs/asiaoilproductspecs.pdf Any submissions for the review process should be sent to asia_products@platts.com and pricegroup@platts.com by October 16, 2015. 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 comment not marked as confidential available upon request.