Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE) Prices

Low Density Polyethylene Prices September 2024

The low density polyethylene prices in the United States for Q3 2024 reached 1220 USD/MT in September. The market faced a challenging quarter, with declining prices driven by excess supply and reduced demand in key sectors. Hurricane-related disruptions and fluctuations in feedstock and upstream material costs added to the pressure, highlighting ongoing vulnerabilities in the country’s supply chains and market dynamics.

The price trend for low density polyethylene in Japan for Q3 2024 settled at 1140 USD/MT in September. The market saw significant price drops, reflecting weakened demand from major industries and cautious purchasing behavior. High supply levels and logistics issues caused by Typhoon Yagi further strained the market, emphasizing ongoing challenges in maintaining stability amidst fluctuating conditions.

In Saudi Arabia, the low density polyethylene prices for Q3 2024 reached 1100 USD/MT in September. The market experienced modest growth, standing out in an otherwise stable MEA region. Rising demand and external supply challenges contributed to the upward trend, reflecting the country’s ability to maintain resilience and adapt to changing market dynamics effectively.

The price trend for low density polyethylene in Brazil for Q3 2024 settled at 1355 USD/MT in September. The market demonstrated steady conditions, with minimal price changes. Balanced supply and demand dynamics supported market stability, while external factors like feedstock fluctuations and global supply challenges had limited impact. The region maintained a consistent outlook amidst a complex global environment.

Low Density Polyethylene Prices March 2024

The low density polyethylene prices in the United States for Q1 2024 reached 1278 USD/MT in March. The market saw steady price increases due to strong demand from packaging and construction industries. Tight supply and rising feedstock costs amplified these gains, creating a stable yet positive pricing environment that reflected the robust market dynamics throughout the quarter.

The price trend for low density polyethylene in Japan for Q1 2024 settled at 1081 USD/MT in March. The market maintained a steady upward price trend, supported by seasonal demand and regional market correlations. Stable supply and consistent growth highlighted resilience, even as year-on-year prices showed minor declines. The overall market displayed positive momentum across the quarter.

In UK, the LDPE prices for Q1 2024 reached 1338 USD/MT in March. The market exhibited price growth despite fluctuating supply and geopolitical pressures. Rising feedstock costs and steady demand contributed to upward price trends, particularly in the latter half of the quarter, showcasing stability and resilience amidst ongoing challenges in the region.

The price trend for low density polyethylene in Saudi Arabia for Q1 2024 settled at 1151 USD/MT in March. The market remained stable, with steady demand from domestic and international buyers. Despite geopolitical tensions impacting freight rates, consistent supply and firm demand ensured price stability, highlighting the region’s ability to maintain a balanced market environment.

Low Density Polyethylene Prices December 2023

The price of low density polyethylene in the United States for Q4 2023 reached 1130 USD/MT by Q4 2023. The market witnessed uncertainty with the prices rising in October and depreciating toward the end of the quarter. The increase in the price trend can be attributed to higher feedstock ethylene costs along with the growing demand from numerous industries including automotive, packaging, and construction. Whereas, the downward trend followed through due to the reduction in upstream naphtha and crude oil prices in confluence with the falling demand worldwide.

The price of low density polyethylene in China reached 1220 USD/MT by the fourth quarter of 2023. The price trend throughout the region displayed volatility, majorly influenced by the constant changes in demands. The prices of LDPE depicted an upward trajectory at the beginning, lowered mid-quarter, and stabilized by the end of the fourth quarter. This fluctuation was a result of the international crude oil prices and reducing financial backing for the product from a cost perspective.

In the European market, the prices for low density polyethylene reached 1570 USD/MT in the fourth quarter 2023. The prices of LDPE throught this region encountered a dip due to the restrained demand from the domestic industry, from packaging and construction industries in specific.

Regional Coverage

The report provides a detailed analysis of the low density polyethylene market across different regions, each with unique pricing dynamics influenced by localized market conditions, supply chain intricacies, and geopolitical factors. This includes price trends, price forecast and supply and demand trends for each region, along with spot prices by major ports. The report also provides coverage of ex-works, FOB, and CIF prices, as well as the key factors influencing the LDPE price trend.

Global Low Density Polyethylene Price

The report offers a holistic view of the global low density polyethylene pricing trends in the form of low density polyethylene price charts, reflecting the worldwide interplay of supply-demand balances, international trade policies, and overarching economic factors that shape the market on a macro level. This comprehensive analysis not only highlights current price of low density polyethylene but also provides insights into historical price trends, enabling stakeholders to understand past fluctuations and their underlying causes.

The report also delves into price forecast models, projecting future price movements based on a variety of indicators such as expected changes in supply chain dynamics, anticipated policy shifts, and emerging market trends. By examining these factors, the report equips industry participants with the necessary tools to make informed strategic decisions, manage risks, and capitalize on market opportunities. Furthermore, it includes a detailed low density polyethylene demand analysis, breaking down regional variations and identifying key drivers specific to each geographic market, thus offering a nuanced understanding of the global pricing landscape.

Europe Low Density Polyethylene Price

Q3 2024: 

Europe's LDPE market saw rising prices in Q3 2024, primarily due to escalating feedstock ethylene and naphtha costs. Geopolitical tensions and port congestion restricted supply availability, heightening cost pressures across the region. The manufacturing sector's slowdown, with reduced purchasing activity and employment, further impacted market dynamics. The UK experienced the most notable price surges, maintaining an upward trend throughout the quarter despite broader supply challenges. These developments highlighted the region's struggle to manage supply-demand imbalances while navigating rising production costs and constrained logistics.

Q2 2024: 

Q2 2024 presented challenges for the European LDPE market, marked by persistent price declines stemming from oversupply and weak requirements from sectors like automotive and construction. Despite stable ethylene costs, economic instability and competitive pricing from non-European distributors deepened the market's struggles. Regional disruptions, including severe weather events along critical transport routes like the Rhine, further complicated supply chains. The United Kingdom, in particular, faced sharp price adjustments. With sluggish economic growth in major global markets and weak domestic demand, the European LDPE market ended the quarter under significant pricing pressures.

Q1 2024: 

During Q1 2024, the European LDPE market experienced price increases, reflecting a positive and resilient environment despite challenges. Rising costs of feedstock ethylene and geopolitical tensions impacted supply dynamics. The UK market exhibited frequent fluctuations, but the overall trajectory remained upward, supported by robust demand and limited supply. Supply chain disruptions further influenced pricing, especially in the latter half of the quarter. Despite these hurdles, the region demonstrated stability, with significant price increases compared to both the previous quarter and the same period last year, highlighting the market’s enduring strength.

Q4 2023:

The LDPE prices in the European region displayed a downward trend throughout the fourth quarter due to lesser demands from the domestic market. Additionally, the end of peak oil season in Europe led to a minimized demand thereby restraining the crude oil market. All of these factors collectively led to the decline of low density polyethylene market across the region.

European low density polyethylene prices are examined, highlighting the market-specific influences in the region, such as stringent environmental regulations, the competitive landscape, and import-export imbalances that significantly affect pricing structures.

This analysis can be extended to include detailed low density polyethylene price information for a comprehensive list of countries.

North America Low Density Polyethylene Price

Q3 2024: 

In Q3 2024, the North American LDPE market faced notable price declines due to surplus supply and lowered demand from critical sectors like packaging and construction. The hurricane season exacerbated supply chain disruptions, creating logistical challenges that intensified pricing pressures. Feedstock ethylene and upstream crude oil price fluctuations further complicated market dynamics. Among regional markets, the USA experienced the sharpest price declines, reflecting the broader instability and demand fluctuations. These factors underscored the challenges in maintaining market equilibrium amid ongoing vulnerabilities in supply chain and external economic pressures.

Q2 2024: 

In the second quarter of 2024, the LDPE market within North America faced a prolonged period of price decline, influenced by abundant imported materials, which placed pressure on domestic pricing. Despite stable feedstock costs, ample supply and moderate demand from key sectors like construction and packaging reinforced the declining trend. High freight costs from overseas regions directed global consumers toward cost-effective U.S. resin. While seasonal demand fluctuations added complexity, an end-of-quarter surge in prices indicated a positive shift driven by supply constraints, steady demand, and marginally rising feedstock costs, improving market sentiment overall.

Q1 2024: 

In Q1 2024, the LDPE market in North America experienced a positive pricing environment, supported by strong demand from construction and packaging sectors. Limited supply, together with rising feedstock ethylene followed by upstream naphtha costs, drove prices higher over the quarterly timeframe. The USA exhibited the most notable price shifts, with consistent increases observed over both halves of the quarter. Despite these surges, the market remained stable, reflecting the robust demand and tight supply conditions that prevailed. This combination of factors underscored the region’s strong pricing dynamics and marked a successful quarter for LDPE.

Q4 2023:

The low density polyethylene market across the fourth quarter displayed fluctuations throughout. The initial phase of the quarter reflected a rise in the prices on account of growing ethylene prices and high demand from sectors including automotive, packaging, and construction industries. Additionally, the later part of the last quarter encountered a decrease in the prices of LDPE due to the reducing naphta and crude oil prices and minimal market demand worldwide.

The analysis of low density polyethylene prices in North America delves into the regional industry dynamics, encompassing the impact of local production capacities and the trade flows between North America and other significant global markets.

Specific low density polyethylene historical data within the United States and Canada can also be provided.

Middle East and Africa Low Density Polyethylene Price

Q3 2024: 

The MEA LDPE market maintained stability in Q3 2024, with prices exhibiting minimal limiting variation. Moderate demand from sectors like construction and packaging, coupled with adequate product availability, supported balanced market conditions. External factors such as feedstock ethylene price variations and global supply disruptions were effectively offset, ensuring consistency. Saudi Arabia stood out with noticeable price increases compared to the previous year, showcasing a steady upward trajectory. This regional resilience reflected the MEA market's ability to sustain stable pricing dynamics amidst broader global challenges.

Q2 2024: 

The LDPE market in the MEA region saw fluctuating prices throughout Q2 2024. While April prices remained stable, May experienced declines, followed by a rebound in June. This variability was influenced by fluctuating feedstock ethylene and crude oil prices, as well as geopolitical tensions affecting supply chains, especially in the Red Sea region. Demand from construction and packaging sectors weakened during the quarter, but increased freight rates and terminal overcrowding issues added upward pressure to prices in certain areas. Saudi Arabia stood out with notable price movements, reflecting broader regional dynamics and a late-quarter recovery driven by global shipping disruptions.

Q1 2024: 

The MEA LDPE market in Q1 2024 experienced steady price increases, driven by strong demand from sectors like packaging and construction. Despite consistent feedstock availability, geopolitical instability in the Red Sea created supply chain challenges, including higher freight rates. Saudi Arabia, a key market, maintained stable prices throughout the quarter due to steady domestic and international demand. Seasonal trends also contributed to a slight rise over the latter half of the quarter. Furthermore, the MEA region showcased resilience, with robust demand supporting stable pricing amidst external pressures.

Q4 2023:

The Middle East and Africa low density polyethylene market prices rose for a short span of time at the start of the quarter and further witnessed a dip at the end. The rise in the prices was led by the restrained demand from downstream industries. Moreover, the reduction in prices can be accredited to the relaxation of feedstock ethylene and crude oil prices which further lead to minimized production costs.

The report explores the low density polyethylene pricing trends in the Middle East and Africa, considering factors like regional industrial growth, the availability of natural resources, and geopolitical tensions that uniquely influence market prices.

In addition to region-wise data, information on low density polyethylene prices for countries can also be provided.

Asia Pacific Low Density Polyethylene Price

Q3 2024: 

The APAC LDPE market experienced declining prices in Q3 2024 due to sluggish demand from major sectors, including automotive, packaging, and construction. Overabundant supply and cautious purchasing by importers exacerbated the market's downturn. Typhoon Yagi further disrupted logistics, causing delays and port congestion in key East Asian regions, especially southern China and Vietnam. Additionally, declining feedstock ethylene and fluctuating crude oil costs pressured market stability. Japan witnessed the steepest price drop, reflecting a negative sentiment in the region as supply chain challenges and weak demand persisted.

Q2 2024: 

The LDPE market in the Asia-Pacific region experienced an upward pricing trend in Q2 2024, primarily driven by rising production costs linked to fluctuating crude oil prices. Logistical disruptions, such as container shortages and increased freight rates, compounded by maintenance turnarounds at regional petrochemical plants, contributed to tightened supply and higher prices. Elevated energy costs further intensified cost pressures across the market. The pricing momentum reflected robust demand and persistent supply-side constraints, with markets such as Japan exemplifying significant price increases. The quarter closed with strong optimism, as the region remained influenced by dynamic market forces and constrained availability.

Q1 2024: 

The APAC region’s LDPE market saw a positive pricing trend in Q1 2024, driven by seasonal demand patterns and a strong correlation in market price dynamics within the region. While prices increased relative to the prior quarter, there was a slight decrease year-on-year. Japan, a key market, maintained stable prices, with modest growth throughout the quarter. Moreover, factors such as steady demand from major industries and a seasonal price uptick contributed to this trend.

Q4 2023:

The Asia Pacific low density propylene price trend witnessed a rise in the initial part of the fourth quarter. However, a major dip was measure during the latter part of the duration. The volatility in these prices can be accredited to the international crude oil prices and reducing support for the product on the cost front. Additionally, the supply of LDPE was moderate whereas the demand settled at a moderate to low range.

The low density polyethylene pricing trends in Asia Pacific are examined, reflecting the role of the region as a major global production hub and consumer market, with price dynamics heavily influenced by supply chain efficiencies, regional demand surges, and policy shifts in major economies.

This low density polyethylene price analysis can be expanded to include a comprehensive list of countries within the region.

Latin America Low Density Polyethylene Price

Q3 2024: 

In Q3 2024, Latin America's LDPE market faced notable price reductions primarily due to subdued demand in key sectors such as packaging, construction, and automotive. Ample domestic supply and reduced international buying interest further intensified price pressures. Logistical challenges, including port congestion and labor disputes, compounded the market's difficulties, particularly in Brazil, where the most significant price fluctuations occurred. Despite the overall downturn, Brazil showed signs of resilience with a slight recovery in prices compared to earlier quarters.

Q2 2024: 

The Latin America LDPE market faced sustained price declines during most of Q2 2024, primarily influenced by low-cost imports from the U.S., which suppressed domestic prices. Ample stock availability, combined with moderate demand from packaging and construction sectors, exacerbated the downward trend. Seasonal demand increases during summer were insufficient to offset the supply surplus. However, by the quarter’s end, prices surged, driven by rising feedstock costs and tightening supply. High freight costs from other regions further impacted market dynamics, leading to a positive shift in sentiment and an improved pricing outlook for the Latin America LDPE market.

Q4 2023:

The analysis of low density polyethylene prices in Latin America provides a detailed overview, reflecting the unique market dynamics in the region influenced by economic policies, industrial growth, and trade frameworks.

This comprehensive review can be extended to include specific countries within the region.

Low Density Polyethylene Price Trend, Market Analysis, and News

IMARC’s newly published report, titled “Low Density Polyethylene Prices, Trend, Chart, Demand, Market Analysis, News, Historical and Forecast Data Report 2024 Edition,” offers an in-depth analysis of low density polyethylene pricing, covering an analysis of global and regional market trends and the critical factors driving these price movements.

It encompasses an in-depth review of spot price of low density polyethylene at major ports, a breakdown of prices including Ex Works, FOB, and CIF, alongside a region-wise dissection of low density polyethylene price trend across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, the Middle East and Africa.

The report examines the elements influencing low density polyethylene price fluctuations, such as changes in raw material costs, supply-demand dynamics, geopolitical factors, and industry-specific developments. Additionally, it integrates the latest market news, providing stakeholders with up-to-date information on market shifts, regulatory changes, and technological advancements, thereby offering a comprehensive overview that aids in strategic decision-making and forecasting.

Low Density Polyethylene Market Analysis

The global low density polyethylene market size reached 23.1 Million Tonnes in 2023. By 2032, IMARC Group expects the market to reach 33.9 Million Tonnes, at a projected CAGR of 4.35% during 2023-2032.

• The rapid growth of the construction industry is leading to a rise in the demand for low density polyethylene (LDPE). For instance, according to GITNUX, the market size of US construction industry reached approximately 1.6 trillion US dollars by 2021. The report also stated, the residential sector holds maximum number of shares in this sector. Low density polyethylene is used to manufacture films and sheets which are utilized in vapor barriers, water proofing, and liners for ponds or landfills. Other than this, developing economies globally, such as India, China, and parts of Latin America are witnessing exponential infrastructural investments by governments, thus leading to a rise in the demand for LDPE.
• Other than this, the agriculture industry widely used low density polyethylene for water management systems, such as irrigation tubing and films which are used for greenhouse covers and mulching. According to the IMARC GROUP, the India agriculture market has reached INR 90,215.8 Billion in 2023, and is expected to reach INR 227,059.9 Billion by 2032. Other than this, LDPE is also used for manufacturing irrigation pipes that help in efficient water distribution, due to its flexibility and moisture resistance.
• Furthermore, the wide utilization of low density polyethylene in the healthcare market is creating a positive influence for the market. Additionally, in the exponentially growing healthcare industry, LDPE is used to produce a wide variety of healthcare products, such as bags, tubing, containers, and medical solutions. According to the INDIA BRAND EQUITY FOUNDATION (IBEF), the India healthcare market is projected to exhibit a CAGR of 39% and reach US$ 50 billion by 2033. Other than this, LDPE is non-reactive which makes its suitable for activities involving contact with sensitive substances, including intravenous (IV) solution bags and blood storage bags. Moreover, the sudden outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has positively influenced the market of low density polyethylene. During the outbreak of this virus, the demand for medical plastics such as LDPE increased so as to produce disposable medical supplies for infection control.

Low Density Polyethylene News

The report covers the latest developments, updates, and trends impacting the global low density polyethylene market, providing stakeholders with timely and relevant information. This segment covers a wide array of news items, including the inauguration of new production facilities, advancements in low density polyethylene production technologies, strategic market expansions by key industry players, and significant mergers and acquisitions that impact the low density polyethylene price trend.

Latest developments in the low density polyethylene industry:

• In November 2022, Shell PLC announced its new operations in Pennsylvania facility with a 1.6 million ton-per-year capacity of polyethylene.
• In January 2022, ExxonMobil and SABIC announced their partnership to introduce a startup of GULF COAST GROWTH VENTURES in San Patricio County, Texas. This new venture has been built with the vision to produce materials used in construction, packaging, agricultural film, clothing, and automotive coolants.

Product Description

Low density polyethylene refers to a thermoplastic and is chemically represented as (C2H4)n. it is a flexible material appearing as translucent to opaque. Additionally, LDPE are often colorless or pigmented in numerous colors according to the additives used.

Low density polyethylene is majorly manufactured through high-pressure polymerization of ethylene which is a gaseous hydrocarbon. Under this procedure, ethylene is subjected to high pressure (approximately 3000 atm) and high temperature (80degree Celsius to 300 degree Celsius) in the presence of oxygen as a radical initiator. This process results in a polymer with a high degree of branching.

The numerous industries where the low density polyethylene is used include agricultural, packaging, construction, consumer goods, healthcare, and textile industries. For instance, in the consumer goods industry, LDPE is used for the production of household products including toys, lids, and squeezable bottles.

Report Coverage

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report presents a detailed analysis of low density polyethylene pricing, covering global and regional trends, spot prices at key ports, and a breakdown of Ex Works, FOB, and CIF prices.
• The study examines factors affecting low density polyethylene price trend, including raw material costs, supply-demand shifts, geopolitical impacts, and industry developments, offering insights for informed decision-making.
• The competitive landscape review equips stakeholders with crucial insights into the latest market news, regulatory changes, and technological advancements, ensuring a well-rounded, strategic overview for forecasting and planning.
• IMARC offers various subscription options, including monthly, quarterly, and biannual updates, allowing clients to stay informed with the latest market trends, ongoing developments, and comprehensive market insights. The low density polyethylene price charts ensure our clients remain at the forefront of the industry.