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PET prices dropped last week due to weak raw material costs and sluggish demand, despite a slight price hike by Wankai. Leading Chinese producers have begun output cuts, but high inventories persist. Exports rose in May, though global competitiveness is under pressure from higher freight rates and US anti-dumping tariffs.

PVC prices saw a marginal rise in early July, supported by export demand and energy market trends. However, subdued domestic consumption, rising inventory, and limited downstream activity are capping major gains. While supply remains high due to increased plant operations, the market is expected to stay stable with slight upward potential.

In early July 2025, demand for DI and ERW pipes remains weak due to monsoon disruptions and sluggish project activity. Manufacturers are offering bulk discounts amid inventory pressure. However, a demand rebound is expected post-monsoon. Strategic buying and stock planning during this low-price window could benefit both buyers and suppliers.

Stainless steel prices remain steady across grades, with 300 series showing flat demand and 200 series witnessing strength due to limited imports. ISSDA reports 8% consumption growth in FY25, signaling robust market fundamentals. Scrap prices remain stable, while end-user sectors continue to influence grade-wise performance amid evolving supply trends.

Flat steel prices remain unchanged across key Indian markets despite subdued demand due to seasonal factors. Distributors report a lull in HRC and CRC movement, but expectations are bullish for the second half of 2025. Meanwhile, POSCO has frozen stainless steel prices to counter rising imports and stabilize its domestic market.

Polyethylene prices remained stable in East China during early July, supported by improving ethylene margins and slight production disruptions in LDPE. Indian producers raised domestic prices modestly, while global supply adjustments continue. However, downstream demand remains subdued, and the market awaits clearer cues from packaging, agriculture, and macroeconomic trends in H2 July.

Zinc prices slipped marginally by 0.06% to ₹259.85 amid weak demand and a slight inventory build-up. Chinese buyers remain cautious, only purchasing for immediate needs due to sluggish manufacturing output. Factory growth in China hit a six-month low, keeping market sentiment subdued. However, retail sales data offered a glimmer of hope for downstream demand.

Steel prices have declined across Mumbai, Delhi NCR, and Vizag due to continued demand weakness and stable inventory levels. Distributors are offering competitive rates to stimulate buying. Meanwhile, Tata Steel faces a GST-related tax demand, although the company maintains there’s no merit in the allegation and plans to contest it.

Polypropylene (PP) markets in both Europe and India remain subdued. Despite crude oil strength, oversupply and poor downstream demand are capping prices. European spot and contract rates are stagnant, while Indian PP prices vary by grade. Market players are adopting a wait-and-watch approach ahead of July’s propylene settlement.