Polyethylene Market Balanced Between Weak Costs and Rising Demand

In the Chinese PE market, LLDPE averaged $1,041/ton on August 20 and $1,043/ton on August 27, marking a slight increase of 0.25%. LDPE prices also inched higher, averaging $1,346/ton on August 20 and $1,349/ton on August 27, reflecting a 0.17% rise. Meanwhile, HDPE remained stable throughout the period, holding firm at $1,120/ton.

Polyethylene Price

  • In the Chinese PE market, LLDPE averaged $1,041/ton on August 20 and $1,043/ton on August 27, marking a slight increase of 0.25%. LDPE prices also inched higher, averaging $1,346/ton on August 20 and $1,349/ton on August 27, reflecting a 0.17% rise.
  • Meanwhile, HDPE remained stable throughout the period, holding firm at $1,120/ton.
  • Overall, the polyethylene market moved within a narrow range, with limited upward momentum.

Demand and Supply

  • Supply: End-of-month dynamics show tighter spot availability and increased pre-sales activity.
  • Demand: Transitioning from the off-season to the peak season, demand has improved. The agricultural film sector has raised operating rates, boosting consumption. 
  • However, after the initial rebound, transaction follow-up has been cautious, restricting further price gains.

Market News

  • Cost side: International crude oil futures closed lower on August 26, loosening cost-side support.
  • Policy: Domestic policy continues to provide a cushion for market stability.
  • Industry activity: Signs of a gradual pick-up in demand from downstream converters as peak season approaches.

RIL and Chiripal Announce Polymer Price Revisions w.e.f. Sep 1, 2025
1. PVC: RIL increased PVC prices by ₹1,500/MT.
2. PE: RIL reduced LDPE prices by ₹2,000/MT, while HDPE and LLDPE prices were rolled over.
3. PP: RIL cut PP prices by ₹1,000/MT and withdrew price protection on PP.
4. PET: Both RIL and Chiripal raised PET prices by ₹4,000/MT.

Market Expectation

  • Short term: Supply pressure has eased somewhat with tighter spot availability.
  • Medium term: With September entering the traditional peak demand season, coupled with policy support, polyethylene prices are expected to maintain strong but range-bound fluctuations.
  • Key drivers: Demand recovery from downstream sectors, crude oil volatility, and the balance of supply tightness vs. cautious buying.
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