Resin To Riches: Weekly Plastic Market Insights

General Thoughts: Global polymer leadership demands more than just low-cost resin; rising protectionism is forcing exporters to master trade barriers, feedstock volatility, and regional nuances, as it protects high-cost positions.
Polyethylene (PE): Global spot PE price volatility reflects both sturdy production and policy uncertainty, with Europe and Asia experiencing price declines last week, on average, compared to a more supportive US spot price.
Polypropylene (PP): Global spot PP markets are balancing US PGP-driven price support with downward pressure elsewhere and regional demand fluctuations. We expect more international PP resin availability in 2H25.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC): Global spot PVC prices, on average, reflected support last week as production issues helped balance markets. Recent protectionist policies and potential supply upticks are in focus in the near term.
Other Sector Developments: Flattened production costs have driven YTD commodity chemical price declines, with improving production across most polymer chains suggesting margin pressure in the second half of 2025.

Exhibit 1 – Chart of the Day: US spot HDPE prices reflect a discount to most regions, helped by its cost advantages.