Episode 1440: PODCAST: Asia naphtha inventories deplete as US-Iran conflict chokes resupply

SINGAPORE (ICIS)--Asia's naphtha inventories are rapidly depleting as the ongoing Middle East conflict disrupts crude flows through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital chokepoint through which around 20% of global crude supply passes.

With crude oil exports from the Middle East constrained, naphtha resupply to Asia has tightened sharply. Estimates suggest Asian petrochemical producers are holding just two to three weeks of working inventory, raising concerns that prolonged disruption could trigger run cuts or even major shutdowns if replenishment fails to materialize.

In this podcast, ICIS principle analyst Darryl Xu breaks down how the Middle East conflict is constraining naphtha availability to Asia, and the potential downstream impact on steam crackers across the region.

• US-Iran conflict disrupts Strait of Hormuz, preventing Middle East crude exports
• Asian producers adjust run rates to manage depleting naphtha inventories
• Middle East refiners face pressure to export amid limited product containment