Platts proposes to reduce maximum olefin content in NWE barge, coaster and railcar propane assessments

Platts, part of S&P Global Commodity Insights, is proposing to update the quality specifications of its propane FOB ARA barge, FCA ARA railcar and its FOB seagoing coaster assessments, effective March 5, 2025, to better reflect the specifications of material currently traded in the spot market.

The revised quality specifications, with lower olefin content, will more closely reflect the typical quality of propane coasters, barges and railcars being traded in the seaborne and inland markets.

Platts has observed a change in olefin content in Northwest European propane coasters, barges and railcars during the second half of 2024 and received feedback from market participants sharing the same observation.

Platts continuously reviews its assessment methodology and seeks to reflect the most up-to-date specifications observed for its market coverage.

The upcoming change will see the assessments' underlying olefins specification updated to reflect a maximum of 10% olefins, from the current 30%.

The assessments affected are listed in the table below:

Full details about the assessments can be found in the Platts Europe and Africa Refined Oil Products specifications guide: https://www.spglobal.com/commodityinsights/PlattsContent/_assets/_files/en/our-methodology/methodology-specifications/europe-africa-refined-products-methodology.pdf .

Please send any comments or feedback to europe_products@spglobal.com and pricegroup@spglobal.com by Feb. 28, 2025.

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.