In Germany, prices for glass fiber increased in October 2025, mainly due to automotive demand and limited supply conditions. Demand for lightweight composite materials was led by electrified vehicles, particularly those powered by batteries and plug-in hybrids, which reinforced the reliance on glass fiber for their lightweight efficiency and performance attributes. Sales for automobiles powered by traditional fuels continued to decline, underscoring a structural transition towards electrification. On the supply side, Germany was dependent on imports from other European countries, and port logistics were critical in supplying Germany. The port of Hamburg had delays with vessels related to construction, hazardous weather, and fewer docking spots available, and rerouting vessels to Unikai caused delays. Reduced CTA capacity and Elbe river restrictions also led to vessels not getting scheduled loads, further tightening availability. Business in general across Europe was active- services in Europe improved to the point of expansion, and growth/improvement in manufacturing was steady in avoiding deterioration, lending demand for inputs to industrial production. Limited supply from international markets was leading to higher levels of landed costs in Europe for glass fiber prices, reinforcing the price increase.
Germany’s glass fiber market experienced a sharp price increase in October, as strong demand placed constraints on supply and availability. Resilient electrified vehicle registrations, along with complicated logistics at important ports, also increased buying pressure on glass fiber prices. Materials like glass fiber, which manufacturers relied on to reduce the weight of their composites and improve efficiency/range, are becoming central to Germany's industrial and automotive transformation. Furthermore, port challenges and tight berth capacity continued to strain supply and keep prices high for landed products.
The automotive industry is an important driver of glass fiber demand in the month. Passenger car registrations experienced strong growth in the month, particularly in the electrified vehicle segment. Both battery electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles require glass fiber in their construction to bring down weight and increase efficiency, indicating glass fiber's relevance as the automotive sector shifts away from liquid fuels towards electrification. This shift in consumer behaviour is increasing demand for advanced composites, keeping glass fiber a key input for manufacturing.
From the supply side, Germany’s dependence on imports from European neighbours meant that the Port of Hamburg could create challenges for availability. In conjunction with construction works, bad weather, and berthing capacity, Hamburg naturally faced challenges in operational capabilities. Wait times for vessel arrivals began to increase, along with service turnarounds from the Port of Hamburg to additional terminals, like Unikai, due to delays. Port congestion and reduced capacity at CTA due to crane replacements and shore power testing created additional supply pressure, along with suspensions of service on the Elbe river for the bigger vessels. All these aspects created constraints on the smooth flow of glass fiber imports and thereby tightening supply and supporting prices at higher levels.
The wider economic context was also a contributing factor to the trend. Business activity across Europe appeared resilient, with services increasing and manufacturing stabilizing after a period of decline. This recovery was a basis for steady demand for industrial inputs, including glass fiber, while tight availability from overseas supported upward pricing momentum. Buyers, who had limited availability options, often had to accept the heightened landed costs, which ultimately fed into the marketplace.
Looking to the future, the glass fiber market outlook remains favourable. With the pace of electrification in the auto sector increasing and new entrants continuing to build share, the consumption of lightweight composites is expected to further increase. Port supply chain issues will likely continue to persist throughout the year, which will continue to pressure import flows. As manufacturers continue to prioritize efficiency and sustainability, the demand for glass fiber is expected to continue to strengthen and support a steady price trend.
