Polycarbonate Prices

Polycarbonate Prices September 2024

The polycarbonate prices in the United States for Q3 2024 reached 2180 USD/MT in September. The market in the USA faced a difficult quarter, with prices declining due to weak consumption in construction and automotive. Elevated freight charges and heightened imports further pressured prices downward, reflecting the broader regional market's instability and challenges in maintaining steady pricing.

The price trend for polycarbonate in Japan for Q3 2024 settled at 2140 USD/MT in September. The market saw a significant price decline due to reduced consumption in the construction and automotive sectors. Worldwide supply chain disruptions and a deflationary environment further fueled the downtrend, marking an ongoing negative pricing phase throughout the quarter.

In Germany, the polycarbonate prices for Q3 2024 reached 2237 USD/MT in September. The market saw substantial price drops, impacted by weak automotive demand, oversupply, and slow economic growth. Despite stable bisphenol A feedstock prices stabilizing production costs, the market remained pressured, mirroring Europe’s overall declining pricing environment.

The polycarbonate prices in the Saudi Arabia for Q3 2024 reached 1805 USD/MT in September. The market faced declining prices amid low consumption, low feedstock prices, and an oversupplied market. These challenges reflected the broader MEA region’s pricing struggles, highlighted by short-term disruptions in oil extraction and ongoing market imbalance.

Polycarbonate Prices June 2024

The polycarbonate prices in the United States for Q2 2024 reached 2250 USD/MT in June. The market faced a downward price trend influenced by reduced production costs due to lower bisphenol A and crude oil prices. Export demand weakened under the pressure of elevated freight rates, and seasonal fluctuations in consumption added to the bearish sentiment throughout the quarter.

The price trend for polycarbonate in Japan for Q2 2024 settled at 2140 USD/MT in June. The market experienced pronounced price variations, due to rising raw material and crude oil costs, alongside geopolitical challenges and supply issues. Despite initial price declines, a modest recovery showcased the market's response to seasonality and shifting demand-supply dynamics.

In Germany, the polycarbonate prices for Q2 2024 reached 2640 USD/MT in June. Germany’s industry saw notable price decreases, affected by lower crude oil prices and excess product availability. High inventories, weak consumption, and a slowing construction industry contributed to persistent bearish conditions and reflected broader economic challenges in the region.

The polycarbonate prices in the Saudi Arabia for Q2 2024 reached 1855 USD/MT in June. Saudi Arabia's market navigated price fluctuations caused by rising feedstock and crude oil costs. Despite typically reduced summer demand, the construction and automotive sectors maintained steady activity, resulting in modest price stability amid elevated production and freight expenses.

The price trend for polycarbonate in Brazil for Q2 2024 settled at 2285 USD/MT in June. Brazil’s market experienced declining prices, influenced by cheaper U.S. imports and severe weather disruptions in country. Flood-induced transportation delays impacted supply chains, weakening end user consumption and supporting the downward market sentiment.

Polycarbonate Prices December 2023

The polycarbonate prices in Mexico for Q4 2023 reached 2749 USD/MT in December. Mexico's polycarbonate market remained stable, despite broader bearish trends in the market. This stability was maintained through consistent supply and a strong currency. However, high inventory levels and subdued international demand pressured prices downward, reflecting a cautious approach by traders amid a challenging market environment.

The price trend for polycarbonate in Germany for Q4 2023 reached 2922 USD/MT in December. The market experienced declining prices due to weak demand and oversupply. Economic uncertainties and geopolitical tensions contributed to a bearish sentiment, with industries like automotive and construction reducing procurement. The market faced ongoing challenges, leading to inventory reductions and price declines amidst cautious economic conditions.

The price trend for polycarbonate in Japan for Q4 2023, reached 2342 USD/MT in December. The market saw declining prices due to weak demand and excess supply. Economic challenges and subdued purchasing from downstream sectors led to a bearish outlook. Companies focused on reducing inventories amid low seasonality and cautious market conditions, contributing to overall market stagnation.

In Saudi Arabia, the price trend for polycarbonate market for Q4 2023 reached 2071 USD/MT, exhibiting a bearish trend. Ample supply and weak demand pushed prices lower. The market faced challenges from reduced purchasing by downstream industries and cost pressures from feedstock materials, leading to cautious trading behaviors and a conservative market stance.

Regional Coverage

The report provides a detailed analysis of the polycarbonate 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 polycarbonate price trend.

Global Polycarbonate Price

The report offers a holistic view of the global polycarbonate pricing trends in the form of polycarbonate 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 the current price but also provides insights into polycarbonate historical price trends, enabling stakeholders to understand past fluctuations and their underlying causes.

The report also delves into polycarbonate 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 polycarbonate 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 Polycarbonate Price

Q3 2024:

The polycarbonate sector in Europe during the third quarter of 2024 was characterized by significant price drops. The declining trend was exacerbated by low consumption, excess product availability, and sluggish economic growth. The industry faced a consistent decrease between the first and second halves of the quarter. Germany, a significant player, experienced pronounced price declines, aligning with the broader market’s bearish tone. Despite steady Bisphenol A feedstock costs aiding in production cost stability, the overall environment remained tough, with reduced consumption and elevated freight rates intensifying price pressures throughout the region.

Q2 2024:

The polycarbonate sector in Europe during the second quarter of 2024 was marked by a reduction in prices, influenced by low production expenses due to falling crude oil prices and excess feedstock. The market struggled with heightened product availability as producers overestimated consumption, leading to a buildup in stocks. The slowdown in certain sectors added to the ongoing sentiment. Germany saw the steepest price decreases, facing both economic and market-specific challenges. This downward trend persisted through the period, exacerbated by weakened demand and excessive supply, showcasing the complex interplay of external economic pressures and regional market conditions.

Q4 2023:

Europe’s polycarbonate market in Q4 2023 faced downward pricing trends due to weak demand and geopolitical uncertainties. The market was characterized by surplus supply and reduced procurement by key industries like construction and automotive. Economic challenges, along with seasonal trends and cautious purchasing behaviors, contributed to the overall bearish sentiment and declining prices.

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

North America Polycarbonate Price

Q3 2024:

The North American market for polycarbonate faced notable pricing challenges during Q3 2024, with a marked downturn attributed to multiple factors. The ongoing weak product consumption in essential sectors caused the bearish trend. Elevating freight costs and heightened import volumes further fueled the negative sentiment. Mexico, notably impacted, highlighted the extent of these challenges with a notable price decline during the quarter, showcasing the ongoing difficulties within the industry. The pricing landscape remained unstable, with a declining trajectory observed throughout, showcasing a struggle to find market stability.

Q2 2024:

The polycarbonate sector in North America in the second quarter of 2024 saw reduced prices driven by multiple sector-specific and macroeconomic influences. Lower production costs stemmed from dropping raw material costs and a consistent reduction in crude oil prices, which eased production costs. Consumption in key sectors remained steady despite high product availability. Heightened freight costs also impacted export potential, dampening international consumption and reinforcing the ongoing downward trend, particularly in the U.S., where prices exhibited a significant decrease.

Q4 2023:

In Q4 2023, the polycarbonate market in North America experienced a bearish trend, largely due to weak demand and excess supply. The market remained relatively stable, supported by a steady supply and currency appreciation. However, overall sentiment was bearish due to destocking activities and oversupply, which led to lower prices and cautious market behavior among traders.

Specific polycarbonate historical data within the United States and Canada can also be provided.

Middle East and Africa Polycarbonate Price

Q3 2024:

The MEA polycarbonate sector experienced notable price declines in Q3 2024 due to several contributing factors. The market continued to struggle with weak consumption, lower raw material costs, and competitive supply. A downward trajectory persisted, with prices dropping further between both halves of Q3. Saudi Arabia, notably impacted, reflected this trend with a decline in product pricing, highlighting the region's challenges. Although fluctuations occurred, the broader market conditions pointed towards a consistent downtrend throughout the quarter, influenced by slight disruptions in upstream crude oil production and exports.

Q2 2024:

The second quarter of 2024 saw price volatility in the MEA polycarbonate market, driven by prevailing economic conditions. Rising feedstock prices along with soaring freight costs due to a global shipping crisis, pushed up manufacturing expenses. Saudi Arabia stood out with significant price adjustments, despite subdued consumption. However, sustained interest from the construction and automotive sectors counterbalanced the seasonal dip, resulting in a moderate price uptick. The market exhibited stability through the Q2, suggesting a balanced outlook, with prices ending on a neutral note by the close of the period.

Q4 2023:

In Q4 2023, the Middle East and Africa polycarbonate market, particularly in Saudi Arabia, saw a bearish trend. An abundant supply and weak demand resulted in price declines. Additionally, high inventories and limited buying activities from end use industries added to the market sentiment, reflecting strategic conservatism and cost pressures from feedstock materials.

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

Asia Pacific Polycarbonate Price

Q3 2024:

In Q3 2024, the APAC region saw a marked decrease in product prices. Contributing factors included weak demand in different sectors, supply chain disruptions, and deflationary pressures. Japan stood out for witnessing the most substantial price drops, driven by declining industrial demand. The negative trend continued throughout the quarter, with slight percentage decreases highlighting sustained pressure on prices. Additionally, eased freight charges in September indicated the end of shipping season, although port congestion issues persisted despite improved transshipment practices.

Q2 2024:

The polycarbonate sector in APAC region during Q2 2024 faced varied fluctuations, resulting in a surge in pricing. Key contributing factors included heightened raw materials and crude oil costs. Seasonal consumption, driven by robust activity in the automobile and construction industries, further boosted costs. Furthermore, supply chain challenges stemming from elevated freight rates and geopolitical issues, added to production costs. Japan experienced some of the most significant price shifts. This reflected the region's complex market dynamics and the balance between supply constraints and increasing demand.

Q4 2023:

The polycarbonate market in the Asia Pacific during Q4 2023 was bearish due to weak demand and high inventory levels. Japan, in particular, saw substantial price changes caused by slow customer demand and high stock levels. Economic challenges and cautious inventory management by businesses led to a decline in market activity, keeping prices under pressure.

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

Latin America Polycarbonate Price

The analysis of polycarbonate 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.

Polycarbonate Price Trend, Market Analysis, and News

IMARC’s newly published report, titled “Polycarbonate Prices, Trend, Chart, Demand, Market Analysis, News, Historical and Forecast Data Report 2024 Edition,” offers an in-depth analysis of polycarbonate 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 polycarbonate at major ports, a breakdown of prices including Ex Works, FOB, and CIF, alongside a region-wise dissection of polycarbonate price trend across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, the Middle East and Africa.

The report examines the elements influencing polycarbonate 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.

Polycarbonate Market Analysis

The global polycarbonate market size reached US$ 10.8 Billion in 2023. By 2032, IMARC Group expects the market to reach US$ 17 Billion, at a projected CAGR of 5.10% during 2023-2032.

• The expanding construction and automotive industries, particularly in emerging economies, are driving the demand for polycarbonate-based materials for applications such as roofing, glazing, and interior components.
• The polycarbonate demand is further amplified by the increasing emphasis on sustainability and environmental consciousness, as it is recyclable and offers a longer lifespan compared to alternative materials. For instance, according to Xinying Zhou et al (2021), the polycarbonate green factories showed eco-effectiveness, with roughly 10% reductions in both non-carcinogens and global warming categories at the leading level. The mechanically recycled PC production could yield 82.3%–99.6% benefits in key categories.
• The growing versatility of polycarbonate extends to its moldability and design flexibility, allowing manufacturers to create intricate shapes and designs for innovative products.
• The healthcare sector's rapid expansion, coupled with increasing demand for medical devices, equipment, and pharmaceutical packaging, contributes to the rising demand for polycarbonate.
• The rising stringency in safety regulations in industries such as automotive and construction drive the adoption of polycarbonate due to its superior fire resistance and ability to meet safety standards.
• The proliferation of smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other electronic devices fuels the demand for polycarbonate in manufacturing electronic housings, screens, and components.
• Ongoing advancements in additives and formulations enhance the performance characteristics of polycarbonate, such as UV resistance, flame retardancy, and chemical resistance, expanding its suitability for diverse applications and industries.
• The shifting trend towards electric vehicles (EVs) present opportunities for polycarbonate in battery housing, interior components, and lightweight body panels, as manufacturers seek materials that offer high strength-to-weight ratios and design flexibility to optimize EV performance and range.
• The increasing adoption of LED lighting solutions for their energy efficiency and long lifespan drives the demand for polycarbonate in LED light fixtures and covers due to its optical clarity, impact resistance, and ability to diffuse light evenly.

Polycarbonate News

The report covers the latest developments, updates, and trends impacting the global polycarbonate 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 polycarbonate production technologies, strategic market expansions by key industry players, and significant mergers and acquisitions that impact the polycarbonate price trend.

Latest developments in the polycarbonate industry:

• In 2023, CHIMEI Group's "A Step Up" motto as reflected in its 2022 Sustainability Report communicates the Company's aspirations to partner with stakeholders for the sake of being more sustainable and with a vision of public welfare. According to GRI and SASB principles, the report was verified as it met the AA1000 Assurance Standards v3’s Type 1 Moderate Assurance Level of independent verification procedures.
• In 2024, LG Chem debuts eco-friendly plastic made from carbon dioxide at Cosmoprof Bologna 2024 to attract customers, showcasing PEC cosmetic containers in collaboration with COSMAX. PEC, derived from captured carbon dioxide and ethylene oxide, marks a notable advancement in sustainable materials at the world's largest beauty industry expo.
• In 2022, LOTTE Chemical's seven synthetic resin products secured ISCC Plus certification, signifying eco-friendly materials used in their manufacturing process. The certification, aligned with EU renewable energy standards, highlights their commitment to sustainability and ESG competitiveness. Plans include testing pyrolysis naphtha for chemical recycling, aiming to supply 50,000 tons of eco-friendly products by 2025, with expansion to 150,000 tons by 2030.

Product Description

Polycarbonate is a universal, super strong thermoplastic polymer, whose unique feature is abstraction from sunlight, heating, and solvents. It is produced generally by polymerization. This reaction combines bisphenol A and phosgene and delivers long chains of the remaining carbonate group.

Being a result of this process, the material is characterized by extraordinary impact resistance, thus, the material remains unbreakable at almost any temperature. Polycarbonate can be found in different shapes and that might be as a solid sheet or film and also as parts of blends with other plastic, such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS).

Its merit lies in being widely used over the spectrum of industries, such as automotive, construction, electronics, and healthcare, where its high transparency, long life, and reduced weight bring significant benefits. Polycarbonate is a convenient choice when high impact resistance is required as in the lenses of safety goggles, helmets, and bulletproof glass as well as for transparent structural elements such as skylights, greenhouse panels, and various aircraft windshields. Its stability makes it unique for use in power devices, LED light covers, and food commodities.

Report Coverage

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report presents a detailed analysis of polycarbonate 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 polycarbonate 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 polycarbonate price charts ensure our clients remain at the forefront of the industry.