NATURAL TAITA ABS (5000W) in Hyderabad

The Indian polymer market remains subdued amid monsoon-driven demand slowdown and global freight issues. While domestic suppliers offer incentives to stimulate sales, geopolitical tensions—especially the Strait of Hormuz crisis—are driving crude prices higher, impacting raw material costs. BIS compliance deadlines are also reshaping sourcing behavior toward certified domestic suppliers.

Indian ABS prices varied across brands and cities, reflecting regional differences. China’s ABS market saw initial declines followed by recovery, driven by supply adjustments and improved trade relations with the U.S. Overall, the ABS market is expected to remain stable or slightly weaker in the near term amid balanced demand and supply conditions.

ABS prices continued to soften across Asian markets, led by oversupply, lower feedstock costs, and subdued demand from converters. In India, prices remain relatively stable due to limited spot cargoes despite global weakness. Persistent bearish sentiment, high inventories, and cautious downstream activity suggest further price erosion in the near term.

ABS prices stayed firm across Indian cities, but global market sentiment remains weak due to oversupply and sluggish demand from automotive and appliance sectors. Despite stable raw material costs, producers face margin pressures. Europe’s structural issues and Asia’s high inventories continue to suppress price recovery, signaling a cautious near-term outlook.

ABS prices remain stable across various locations, with LOTTE's SD-0150 (Black) priced at ₹158,000/MT. Domestic ABS demand in China is rising ahead of the Spring Festival despite a slight decrease in production rates. ABS market stability is expected, with ongoing interest from household appliance sectors.

The domestic ABS market remains under pressure due to weak demand and rising inventory levels. While production stabilized at 72% operating rates, oversupply and sluggish downstream demand continue to weigh on prices. With key raw materials showing weak trends, market sentiment remains cautious, and price corrections may persist in the near term.

Ethylene market dynamics remain uncertain as inflation pressures impact supply expansion plans. Westlake’s potential cracker expansion in Louisiana could increase capacity by 40%, but cost concerns delay decisions. Meanwhile, polymer prices remain volatile, with PVC, HDPE, LDPE, and ABS seeing mixed trends across major Indian hubs. Short-term market stability is expected.

The Asian ABS market remains stable, with steady production rates and sufficient inventories balancing demand. Prices are largely unchanged despite fluctuating upstream costs. While post-holiday demand recovery is slow, major ABS producers maintain consistent operating rates. Short-term price movements are expected to be limited as market conditions gradually stabilize.

Styrene Monomer prices showed minimal fluctuations due to weak buying trends. Rising benzene costs have increased production expenses, squeezing profit margins. Demand remains sluggish, particularly in EPS and 3S sectors. Meanwhile, supply remains stable despite maintenance activities. Market expectations indicate continued price consolidation, influenced by crude oil trends and benzene movements.