For the Quarter Ending December 2025
North America
• In the USA, the Polystyrene Price Index fell by 14.59% quarter-over-quarter, driven by inventory overhang.
• The average Polystyrene price for the quarter was approximately USD 1256.67/MT, reflecting spot contract dynamics.
• Polystyrene Spot Price weakened amid steady imports, pressuring Gulf Coast offers and compressing producer margins.
• Polystyrene Price Forecast projects slight sequential gains if inventories normalize and benzene-driven costs stabilize modestly.
• Polystyrene Production Cost Trend showed lower feedstock costs earlier, though benzene upticks partially reversed compression.
• Polystyrene Demand Outlook stays muted, with packaging resilience offset by construction declines and converter restocking.
• Polystyrene Price Index movements matched import competitiveness and softer container freight, thereby influencing domestic offers.
• Elevated inventories and operating rates constrained rallies, while Asian export inflows amplified pressure on pricing.
Why did the price of Polystyrene change in December 2025 in North America?
• Higher benzene costs increased production margins, encouraging firmer offers despite broader polystyrene market weakness overall.
• Improved Asian export availability and reduced container freight lowered import costs, worsening domestic oversupply pressure.
• Seasonal downstream destocking and subdued construction activity reduced purchasing, leaving inventories elevated into December period.
APAC
• In Japan, the Polystyrene Price Index fell by 2.65% quarter-over-quarter, reflecting softer demand and supply.
• The average Polystyrene price for the quarter was approximately USD 1912.67/MT, based on reported assessments.
• Polystyrene Spot Price remained range-bound as comfortable inventories and steady intra-Asia exports limited upward pressure.
• Polystyrene Price Forecast indicates mild seasonal gains into early Q1 as post-holiday restocking supports firmer buying.
• Polystyrene Production Cost Trend stayed muted with stable styrene feedstock and contained logistics expense volatility.
• Polystyrene Demand Outlook appears balanced as electronics and packaging demand offset seasonal softness in construction applications.
• Polystyrene Price Index shows mild downward bias amid normal operating rates and exporters offering competitive cargoes.
• Producers maintained utilisation, keeping offers steady while spot liquidity remained subdued ahead of year-end restocking.
Why did the price of Polystyrene change in December 2025 in APAC?
• Balanced feedstock costs and steady imports limited cost-push despite muted spot buying and orderly logistics.
• Comfortable inventories and uninterrupted regional flows significantly reduced urgency to replenish, constraining upward price momentum.
• Seasonal softness in packaging and construction demand tempered buying while electronics orders remained adequate overall.
Europe
• In Germany, the Polystyrene Price Index fell by 5.9% quarter-over-quarter, reflecting oversupply and weak demand.
• The average Polystyrene price for the quarter was approximately USD 1482.00/MT, reflecting balanced year-end buying and support.
• Polystyrene Spot Price remained range-bound amid steady production, imports, and cautious converter buying ahead of holidays.
• Polystyrene Price Forecast anticipates modest recovery in early Q1 due to seasonal restocking and cracker turnarounds.
• Polystyrene Production Cost Trend shows stable styrene feedstock and easing energy costs, supporting producer margin recovery.
• Polystyrene Demand Outlook remains mixed with packaging resilience offset by weaker electronics and construction seasonal slowdown.
• Polystyrene Price Index pressure stems from swollen inventories despite export flows to neighbouring markets providing modest support.
• Producers maintained normal operating rates while increasing recycled-content blends, moderating spot volatility and preserving supply flexibility.
Why did the price of Polystyrene change in December 2025 in Europe?
• Persistent oversupply from steady cracker output and ample styrene feedstock depressed prices despite normal logistics.
• Soft electronics and construction demand reduced converter purchases, sustaining downward pressure on quarterly Price Index.
• Rising inventories combined with recycled-content substitution and cautious buying limited spot upticks at quarter end.
MEA
• In Saudi Arabia, the Polystyrene Price Index fell by 9.4% quarter-over-quarter, reflecting balanced supply and muted demand.
• The average Polystyrene price for the quarter was approximately USD 1246.67/MT, reflecting stable FOB Riyadh conditions.
• Polystyrene Spot Price showed range-bound weekly action and the Price Index signalled no immediate directional breakout.
• Polystyrene Price Forecast indicates modest upward bias into early 2026 amid seasonal restocking and steady export demand.
• Polystyrene Production Cost Trend remained contained as stable regional styrene feedstock and advantaged ethane curtailed cost pressures.
• Polystyrene Demand Outlook stayed moderate with packaging and electronics supporting volumes but converters maintaining just-in-time procurement.
• Polystyrene Price Index weakness reflected comfortable inventories and limited arbitrage as producers covered domestic needs and exported surplus.
• Major Saudi producers operated at routine rates, limiting upside while freight and logistics stability constrained export arbitrage opportunities.
Why did the price of Polystyrene change in December 2025 in MEA?
• Balanced domestic supply and steady plant run rates removed upside pressure, keeping prices neutral in December.
• Contained styrene and advantaged ethane feedstock costs limited production cost pass-through to Polystyrene prices materially.
• Comfortable inventories and muted end-user buying reduced arbitrage and inhibited any meaningful December price recovery.
South America
• In Brazil, the Polystyrene Price Index fell by 5.3% quarter-over-quarter, reflecting subdued import demand levels.
• The average Polystyrene price for the quarter was approximately USD 1618.00/MT based on reported totals.
• Polystyrene Spot Price remained pressured by ample imports and moderate converter procurement during the quarter.
• Polystyrene Price Forecast indicates limited upside absent stronger seasonal restocking or upstream cost increases soon.
• Polystyrene Production Cost Trend eased as styrene and naphtha softening reduced margin pressures during quarter.
• Polystyrene Demand Outlook remains moderate with packaging uptick offset by cautious electronics and appliance procurement.
• Polystyrene Price Index volatility constrained by steady logistics, port operations, and balanced inventories limiting recovery.
• Export demand provided modest clearance but persistent import competition maintained pressure on local prices throughout.
Why did the price of Polystyrene change in December 2025 in South America?
• Balanced imports and measured buyer restocking kept supply adequate, preventing meaningful upward price pressure momentum.
• Declining styrene and naphtha costs eased production costs, limiting cost-driven price increases in December period.
• Operationally, port flows and logistics remained smooth, enabling imports and restraining any tightness-driven rallies nationwide.
For the Quarter Ending September 2025
North America
• In the USA, the Polystyrene Price Index fell by 5.43% quarter-over-quarter, reflecting weak demand and high inventories.
• The average Polystyrene price for the quarter was approximately USD 1533.00/MT with subdued offtake overall.
• Polystyrene Spot Price declined late quarter as offers softened amid abundant stocks and weak restocking.
• Polystyrene Production Cost Trend eased as styrene and benzene prices softened, reducing cost-push on producers.
• Polystyrene Price Index volatility moderated in September as weekly quotes consolidated and sellers competed aggressively.
• Inventory builds, substitution toward recycled grades constrained demand, prompting downward pressure on domestic offers broadly.
Why did the price of Polystyrene change in September 2025 in North America?
• Ample inventories and steady production removed upward price support, reducing urgency for buying and restocking.
• Eased benzene and styrene costs lowered Polystyrene production cost pressure, constraining producers from raising offers.
• Moderate downstream activity and substitution toward recycled grades reduced incremental offtake, weakening Polystyrene spot recovery.
APAC
• In Japan, the Polystyrene Price Index fell by 2.32% quarter-over-quarter, reflecting subdued demand and import competition.
• The average Polystyrene price for the quarter was approximately USD 1964.67/MT, indicating stable range-bound market conditions.
• Polystyrene Spot Price remained muted while the Polystyrene Price Index showed downward momentum amid balanced supply.
• Feedstock pressures eased as naphtha and styrene costs fell, improving Polystyrene Production Cost Trend margins.
• Sufficient inventories and restocking alongside export flows constrained offers, keeping the Polystyrene Price Index subdued.
• Domestic producers maintained steady operating rates without major shutdowns, supporting availability despite mildly weakening Price Index.
Why did the price of Polystyrene change in September 2025 in APAC?
• Subdued downstream procurement, cautious restocking reduced domestic absorption, pressuring spot offers and the Price Index.
• Competitive import flows from Southeast Asia maintained supply, while logistics stability prevented short-term cost spikes.
• Lower naphtha and styrene costs eased production cost pressures, offsetting weak demand and limiting rallies.
Europe
• In Germany, the Polystyrene Price Index fell by 5.31% quarter-over-quarter, reflecting inventory overhang and weaker demand.
• The average Polystyrene price for the quarter was approximately USD 1575.33/MT, reflecting range-bound market conditions.
• Polystyrene Spot Price weakened in September amid ample imports and converter purchasing, maintaining downward pricing pressure.
• Polystyrene Production Cost Trend benign as styrene and energy costs stayed moderate, limiting cost-push support.
• High inventories and domestic output pressured the Polystyrene Price Index, constraining upward movement despite export flows.
• Operational stability at producers kept supply reliable while recyclate substitution limited virgin Polystyrene demand and upside.
Why did the price of Polystyrene change in September 2025 in Europe?
• Oversupply from steady domestic output and imports created inventory overhang, pressuring September pricing downward further.
• Stable feedstock styrene and energy costs limited cost push, failing to support higher September quotes.
• Weak converter demand and recycled grades reduced spot uptake, while logistical normalization maintained import levels
MEA
• In Saudi Arabia, the Polystyrene Price Index fell by 5.39% quarter-over-quarter, reflecting subdued downstream demand.
• The average Polystyrene price for the quarter was approximately USD 1376.00/MT, reflecting limited spot volatility during the quarter.
• Polystyrene Spot Price remained range-bound as steady production and imports balanced domestic consumption pressures mildly.
• Polystyrene Production Cost Trend stayed stable as soft styrene and naphtha eased input cost pressures.
• Polystyrene Price Index weakness was amplified by elevated port inventories and trader behavior limiting liquidity.
• Operational stability at major producers maintained supply discipline, capping volatility despite competition and oversupply risks.
Why did the price of Polystyrene change in September 2025 in MEA?
• Weak downstream restocking reduced immediate buying, thereby pressuring spot prices and maintaining neutral market balance.
• Soft feedstock styrene and lower naphtha eased production costs, limiting upward price pressure despite steady demand.
• Elevated inventories and logistics increased availability, enabling sellers to hold offers and restrain price recovery.
South America
• In Brazil, the Polystyrene Price Index rose marginally by 0.04% quarter-over-quarter, reflecting balanced supply and muted demand.
• The average Polystyrene price for the quarter was approximately USD 1598.67/MT, reflecting CFR Santos grade dynamics.
• Polystyrene Spot Price movements were restrained by stable imports and sufficient inventories, limiting short-term volatility.
• Polystyrene Production Cost Trend remained mild as lower styrene feedstock costs eased upstream pressure on producers.
• Polystyrene Price Index stability reflected neutral consumption, currency effects, and intermittent port congestion affecting prompt supply.
• Operational continuity at regional producers and consistent import flows supported supply, preventing sharper Polystyrene Price Index movements.
Why did the price of Polystyrene change in September 2025 in South America?
• Balanced import volumes and steady domestic production maintained supply, capping upward price momentum in September.
• Lower styrene feedstock costs reduced production pressure, contributing to limited downstream procurement and subdued pricing.
• Port congestion and currency depreciation intermittently tightened imports, creating localized support but overall neutral price impact.
For the Quarter Ending June 2025
North America
• Polystyrene price index in USA showed limited fluctuation during Q2 2025.
• While April witnessed stable spot prices amid average Polystyrene demand outlook and soft cost support, May 2025 saw mild growth in price index, driven by restocking from downstream packaging and electronics sectors.
• By June, prices steadied again as seasonal demand moderated. Supply conditions remained largely consistent with only a few plant outages reported at domestic production facilities.
• Feedstock styrene and benzene prices were relatively moderate, leading to stable production cost trends.
• Logistics improved slightly following spring-related slowdowns, allowing timely inventory movement.
• However, macroeconomic uncertainties kept procurement cautious, especially in the construction segment.
• Imports from Asia remained competitive but did not significantly disrupt the domestic market.
Why were the prices of Polystyrene stable in July 2025 in the US?
• In July 2025, Polystyrene spot prices in the US held steady due to balanced supply-demand fundamentals.
• Stable feedstock costs, steady packaging demand, and cautious construction activities contributed to restrained pricing sentiment. Polystyrene production cost trend remained flat, and inventory levels were sufficient to meet existing needs.
• Polystyrene Price forecast for Q3 2025 suggests upward movement in price index driven by pre-festive packaging demand, though construction and macroeconomic uncertainties may limit growth.
APAC
• Polystyrene spot prices in South Korea declined in early Q2 2025 before stabilizing in June.
• April recorded a drop in price index due to bearish downstream sentiment and high inventories from the previous quarter.
• Despite some recovery in packaging demand by mid-May, overall offtake remained moderate.
• Electronics production showed uneven trends, with average procurement of polystyrene for consumer goods and housing materials.
• Feedstock styrene prices reduced in April, lowering the input costs, but increased in June alongside improved regional sentiment.
• Despite some plant shutdowns, production continued at steady rates.
• Export activity to Southeast Asia helped reduce domestic inventory pressure, though sentiment remained mixed due to competitive import offers from China and Taiwan.
Why were the prices of Polystyrene stable in July 2025 in Asia?
• In July 2025, Polystyrene Price Index in South Korea experienced stabilization.
• The stability was supported by constant demand from the packaging industry and continuous productions. Moderate import volumes also contributed to price firmness.
• The production cost trend reflected no upward pressure from feedstock styrene market.
• Price Forecast suggests modest gains through Q3, provided downstream restocking continues and macroeconomic sentiment remains stable.
Europe
• Polystyrene price index in the Netherlands trended downward throughout Q2 2025.
• April and May saw consecutive declines due to weak demand outlook from packaging and consumer durables segments, while June brought temporary stabilization supported by marginal recovery in construction demand.
• Feedstock styrene costs dropped in early Q2, weakening cost support for producers. Inventory levels remained high due to cautious buying and extended delivery lead times from Asia.
• Domestic production operated steadily, though imports from the Middle East and APAC added competitive pressure.
• Logistical congestion at major Western European ports affected delivery schedules but did not cause significant disruptions.
• End-user industries delayed procurement due to macroeconomic pressures and cautious inventory planning.
Why did the price of Polystyrene change in July 2025 in the Netherlands?
• In July 2025, Polystyrene price index in the Netherlands fell due to reduced demand from packaging and electronics sectors, lower feedstock styrene costs, and competitive Asian imports.
• Production cost trend was neutral, but excess inventory levels pressured pricing downward.
• Polystyrene Price forecast for Q3 2025 remains neutral, with only moderate growth expected if downstream restocking strengthens and imports decline.
MEA
• Polystyrene spot prices in Saudi Arabia remained stable through most of Q2 2025, with a decline in April followed by a modest rebound in June.
• April's lower price index rose from low post-Eid demand and decrease in construction activities.
• By late May, procurement improved from packaging and electronics sectors, which, along with higher styrene costs, supported prices in June.
• Domestic producers operated smoothly without major outages. Exports to South Asia and Africa remained stable, helping maintain a balanced inventory environment.
• Competitive cargoes from Asia offered limited disruption, and local distribution improved post-Ramadan, supporting consistent supply chains.
• Overall sentiment was conservative, with buyers focusing on short-term needs.
Why did the price of Polystyrene change in July 2025 in Saudi Arabia?
• In July 2025, Polystyrene price index in Saudi Arabia declined due to weak post-holiday demand and stable production.
• Feedstock costs were low, and export activity was moderate, leading to average domestic market sentiment.
• Price forecast for Q3 2025 suggests growth backed by infrastructure activities and seasonal restocking, though external competition may cap growth.
South America
• Polystyrene price index in Brazil showed a declining trend in April and May 2025 before edging higher in June.
• Price corrections were driven by declining feedstock styrene costs and reduced demand from packaging sector.
• Inflation and currency volatility kept buyers cautious, especially in automotive and construction applications.
• June witnessed a slight recovery in prices supported by seasonal recovery in consumer goods packaging and tighter supply from import delays.
• Domestic production remained steady, while cargo arrivals from the US and Europe increased availability.
• Logistics disruptions at Brazilian ports occasionally delayed shipments, causing short-term mismatches between supply and demand.
Why were the prices of Polystyrene stable in July 2025 in Brazil?
• In July 2025, Polystyrene price index in Brazil experienced stabilization.
• The stability was supported by constant demand from the packaging industry and continuous productions. Continuous import volumes also contributed to price firmness.
• The production cost trend reflected no upward pressure from feedstock styrene market.
• Price Forecast suggests modest gains through Q3, provided downstream restocking continues and macroeconomic sentiment remains stable.
For the Quarter Ending March 2025
North America
In Q1 2025, the Polystyrene (PS) market in North America observed alternating trends amid fluctuations in demand and upstream costs. In USA, January began on a stable note, supported by steady downstream consumption from packaging and automobile sectors. However, mid-month witnessed a marginal drop in prices, followed by a moderate recovery in the fourth week due to rising feedstock costs. By the end of January, prices softened again, mainly driven by reduced demand and high supply.
In February, the market remained mostly steady despite external uncertainties. Automobile demand held firm, but the packaging industry experienced notable weakness, with International Paper announcing mill closures in response to declining volumes. Mid-February saw a slight price drop of around 1% amid oversupply, while the remainder of the month was largely flat.
March saw prices opening stable at USD 1,665/MT for GPPS grade, before a notable 5% drop in the second week due to styrene cost declines and market oversupply. A partial rebound followed in week three due to planned maintenance and rising energy prices. Overall, Q1 closed on a cautious tone.
APAC
During Q1 2025, the Polystyrene (PS) segment faced reduced trading activity. In China, the market was primarily influenced by reduced downstream demand and post-holiday recovery. January began with sluggish market sentiment as prices remained low, impacted by weak demand from packaging and electronics sectors and cautious restocking ahead of Lunar New Year. However, limited changes in feedstock styrene prices helped stabilize market dynamics. In February, market participants observed a relatively flat trend. Prices remained stable through early February as construction activity resumed under government infrastructure support. Despite that, subdued consumer goods demand and excess inventory levels capped any price rise. By late February, producers struggled to stimulate buying interest. In March, prices became flat by the month-end, compared to earlier levels. Post-holiday resumption failed to lift market enthusiasm significantly, with packaging and electronics industries continuing to adopt a cautious procurement approach. Although feedstock costs showed some resistance to decline, overall sentiments remained bearish due to muted demand and high material availability throughout the quarter.
Europe
The Polystyrene (PS) market in Europe experienced mixed fundamentals through Q1 2025. Especially in Germany, during January, market activity was cautious as buyers delayed orders amid average downstream demand and relatively weak support from feedstock styrene. The electronics and packaging sectors showed only moderate offtake, contributing to mild price fluctuations. February saw a brief revival in sentiment with better procurement activity in the packaging segment, particularly in the FMCG industries. Producers maintained steady operations, though macroeconomic pressures and energy concerns remained. Prices trended upward modestly mid-month, supported by stable supply and slight improvement in domestic demand. March closed with Polystyrene prices at USD 1,510/MT for GPPS grade. However, the overall market tone remained conservative with limited bulk orders placed as buyers remained cautious of further economic uncertainty. Import volumes stayed moderate, favouring domestic supply channels. Despite seasonal restocking and improved logistics, the market sentiment in Europe through Q1 was one of stabilization rather than expansion, as downstream sectors remained hesitant to engage in aggressive procurement.
MEA
In Q1 2025, the Polystyrene (PS) market in the Middle East moved within a relatively stable range. Particularly in Saudi Arabia, there were minor shifts driven by raw material fluctuations and restrained demand. The market opened January cautiously, as manufacturers focused on adjusting inventories amid average demand from packaging and construction sectors. By mid-January, market participants noted improved domestic logistics and reduced feedstock pressure, which helped maintain price levels. In February, upstream styrene prices offered limited support, keeping PS values in a narrow range. However, rising usage in downstream insulation applications offered localized demand momentum. March ended with consistency in prices, reflecting a stable trend compared to the previous weeks. Despite Ramadan preparations, overall demand remained moderate. Inventory levels were well-managed, and domestic production faced no major disruptions. Export activity was slow, and import volumes remained steady. The quarter overall was marked by a neutral pricing environment, guided by steady manufacturing activity and limited external factors, as regional consumers maintained a wait-and-watch approach.
South America
The South American Polystyrene (PS) market experienced a downward trend throughout Q1 2025. January began on an average note in Brazil, with reduced usage from packaging and electronics industries amidst broader economic uncertainties. Stable but unfavourable feedstock styrene market dynamics offered little cost support. Mid-January saw temporary stabilization in prices, driven by seasonal restocking. In February, market participants observed limited change in demand conditions, with many buyers avoiding long-term contracts due to exchange rate volatility and freight concerns. Prices declined slightly mid-month, in response to reduced exports and excess inventories. In March, PS prices settled at USD 1,600/MT for GPPS grade by month-end. The bearish trend persisted as domestic demand failed to pick up even normally, especially from the construction and electronics sectors. Manufacturers adopted conservative pricing strategies to manage stock levels, while upstream styrene remained relatively flat. Overall, Q1 2025 was characterized by weak demand, a well-supplied market, and cautious buying behaviour across the region, keeping PS prices under pressure.
