Bisphenol A (BPA) prices stayed weak across Asia and Europe in early April xxxx. Low demand from epoxy resin and polycarbonate users, cheap feedstock prices, and limited export activity weighed on sentiment. Post-holiday pickup in demand may support prices in the coming months.
BPA market sentiment in China remained soft as downstream demand stayed weak. Orders from epoxy resin and polycarbonate producers were low, mainly due to the ongoing slowdown in the construction sector. Buyers continued to purchase only what was necessary, avoiding bulk orders.
Several BPA units, including those of Sinopec Mitsui and Cangzhou Dahua, underwent maintenance, slightly reducing supply. However, high inventories offset any potential supply concerns. Feedstock costs, particularly for phenol and acetone, remained low, offering limited cost support. Port congestion at Qingdao and the slowdown during Ramadan further hampered export activity.
Traders noted that while China’s overall manufacturing output improved...
