The Octane Premium Battle

Toluene's high octane rating makes it a 'must-have' for gasoline blenders. Refiners are reportedly paying massive premiums for available spot volumes, effectively locking solvent users out of the market.

Maintenance Drag

Ongoing turnaround schedules at major US reformers have exacerbated the shortage. Analysts do not expect a significant price correction until late June when extraction capacity returns to normal levels.