Market participants remain watchful of pre-Lunar New Year replenishment activities, which traditionally signal a seasonal demand uptick. However, expectations of new supply entering the market are likely to suppress any significant restocking momentum.
For the first time since August 2024, Saudi Aramco, the world’s largest oil and gas producer, has reduced liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) prices for Asian markets, signalling a response to weakening demand. In addition, the petrochemical sector continues to face declining demand due to sluggish activity in downstream industries. Market sources highlight that the startup of new refining capacities in China
The Chinese LDPE film market has continued its downward trajectory, with spot offers dipping below the CNY 10,000/ton mark for the first time since August 2024. This marks the fifth consecutive week of gradual yet consistent price declines
While repeated indications from the incoming US administration to impose hefty duties on Chinese goods may directly impact finished products, market participants are also closely monitoring regulatory changes in key importing countries of Chinese PP, namely Brazil, India, and Indonesia.
Despite weaker performance in the futures market, domestic spot LLDPE film offers remained firm, buoyed by limited spot supply. However, this confidence was insufficient to prompt significant procurements, as lingering uncertainties clouded the outlook for January.
In a positive development, auction allocations have significantly increased, a change that market sources view as a welcome relief. This improved allocation is expected to provide some easing of the current tightness in spot cargoes, though challenges remain.