SUBSCRIBER NOTE: Platts to amend Asia gasoline distillation, density specs

Platts confirms that it will amend the distillation and density specifications for gasoline reflected in its FOB Singapore gasoline 92 RON unleaded, 95 RON unleaded and 97 RON unleaded assessments. The changes follow on from a consultation on specifications launched by Platts on May 3 and reflects feedback received since that time. Platts announced its intention to implement the change on September 13. Under these changes, Platts will raise the minimum T50 distillation temperature threshold for Singapore gasoline assessments to 80 degrees Celsius, from the current 75 degrees Celsius. Platts will also introduce a new minimum density requirement of 0.720 g/ml. The amended specifications will take effect from January 1, 2014, and cargoes traded in the Platts Market on Close assessment process thenceforth will have to meet the new specification requirements. These changes reflect evolving quality standards in Singapore, where gasoline trading reflects supply and demand across the Asia Pacific and Middle East regions. 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 new specification would enhance the ability of gasoline meeting Platts' FOB Singapore 92 RON specifications to be blended to meet Indonesia's import specifications 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 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.