During the latter part of May xxxx, the worldwide Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) market recorded varying trends among prominent regions, governed by changing feedstock prices, transport challenges, and varying regional demand patterns.
• United States: Surge in the Middle of Strain
In a unique snapshot, the US TPE market burst into flame during the third week of May xxxx, with prices jumping x.xxx to a dominant USD x,xxx/MT, driven by a x.xxx surge in feedstock styrene prices to USD x,xxx/MT—a shock to production costs. Strong regional export fervor and unshakeable automotive demand drove the rise, but a Port of Houston logistical stranglehold compelled top producers to choke back production, protecting supply without inundating inventories. Through week four, TPE prices maintained their standing at USD x,xxx/MT (FOB), but an explosive collapse in light vehicle sales—triggered by consumers avoiding impending tariff-fueled increases—cast...
