Polymers Market Shifts: Buyers Gain Control Amid Weak Demand Trends

Polymer markets show price variability across grades and locations, with ABS and HDPE prices reflecting current trends. Demand for engineering-grade polymers like ABS and nylon remains weak, with no recovery signs. Meanwhile, stable feedstock prices and shifts in market dynamics indicate a buyer-dominated environment.

Key Highlights

  1. Polymer Price Trends: ABS prices range between ₹138,000-155,000/MT, while HDPE prime materials in Ahmedabad are priced between ₹82,560-85,530/MT.
  2. Demand Weakness: Engineering-grade polymers like ABS, HDPE, and nylon face sustained demand declines, with limited recovery prospects.
  3. Chemical News Updates: Propylene Oxide production resumes in Jiangsu, China, while Turkey's ACN unit remains shut until year-end.
  4. Market Dynamics: Declining demand and stable feedstock prices shift the market to favor buyers over sellers.

Polymer Price Trends: December Update

  • ABS market prices for December, indicate variability based on brand, grade, color, and location. Lotte (Black): Rs 155,000/MT in Kolkata, Rs 140,000/MT in Hyderabad. Bhansali (Natural): Rs 140,000/MT in Delhi. Lotte (Natural): Rs 138,000/MT in both Delhi and Kolkata.
  • As of December 23, 2024, the HDPE market in Ahmedabad showcases varied pricing based on type, grade, and make. PE100 Natural is priced at ₹82,560/MT for prime material. Blow Molding (BM) grades range from ₹83,180/MT. Injection Molding (IM) grade M2050S is offered at ₹85,530/MT for prime quality.

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Supply and Demand: Weak Outlook for Engineering Polymers

  • Demand for engineering-grade polymers remains low. 
  • HDPE blow molding and injection molding markets are experiencing weak demand.
  • Virgin engineering-grade ABS and nylon have shown notable demand declines over the past 2-3 months, with no immediate recovery signs.

Polymer News: Key Plant Operations and Feedstock Stability

  • Jiangsu Ruiheng New Material has restarted its Propylene Oxide (PO) plant in Lianyungang, Jiangsu Province, China.
  • Petkim has shut its Acrylonitrile (ACN) unit in Aliaga, Turkey, until 31st December 2024, for strategic reasons.
  • Naphtha prices remain stable at US$ 635/MT CFR Japan.
  • Styrene Monomer prices remain stable at US$ 1035/MT FOB Korea.
  • Ethylene prices remain stable at US$ 880/MT CFR NE Asia and US$ 930/MT CFR SE Asia.

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Expert Opinion: Market Shifts Favor Buyers in Polymers

Demand for virgin HDPE blow molding and PP injection molding is declining. Market participants report a shift to a buyer-dominated market, moving away from seller advantages.

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