Polymer prices have continued their downward drift this month

Polymer prices have continued their downward drift this month

Prices were lower in all sectors with the exception of PVC – which was rolled over – and PET, where further gains were achieved. Better availability was one factor, with most plants running as normal after a series of scheduled and unscheduled outages during the autumn. There was also evidence that producers have been willing to offload material at more favourable prices as the year-end financial reporting period approaches.

Demand has been better than expected in most sectors for the time of year. It seems that converters that can afford it are pre-buying in anticipation of higher prices in the New Year. Producers are confident that the downward drift in prices since early November will prove to be temporary. They claim market conditions are set for a substantial upturn during the first quarter.

Several polymer producers have already announced price increases from 1 January, as they are pushing hard to recover rising feedstock costs.