European ethylene and propylene contract prices increased significantly in October 2026, reflecting higher feedstock costs across the regional petrochemical industry.
According to industry reports published in early October, both ethylene and propylene contract prices rose by EUR 80 per metric ton compared with September.
The increases were primarily driven by rising naphtha prices, an important feedstock for European steam crackers.
Ethylene and propylene are two of the most important basic petrochemical building blocks.
Ethylene is widely used in the production of polyethylene, ethylene oxide and other chemical derivatives.
Propylene is an essential raw material for polypropylene, acrylic acid, oxo alcohols and various industrial chemicals.
Higher olefin feedstock costs can influence production economics throughout the downstream petrochemical value chain.
The October contract settlements highlight the close relationship between naphtha costs and European olefin pricing.
Changes in crude oil, naphtha and olefin contract prices will remain important indicators for chemical producers and international market participants.