High-density polyethylene (HDPE) export prices in the United States declined this week as weak demand and abundant supply across all polyethylene grades continued to weigh on sentiment. Market participants reported that the bearish tone seen throughout August has persisted, with both domestic and export markets facing subdued buying interest.
A US-based industry source told Polymerduniya, “US spot export HDPE prices fell, influenced by continuously low demand and ample supply across all polyethylene types. Buyers largely resisted elevated bids, pointing to sufficient inventories and muted downstream pull, while sellers had to compete aggressively to finalize transactions.”
China has remained the dominant outlet for surplus US HDPE, absorbing substantial volumes despite general global weakness. However, traders observed that competition in the Chinese market has intensified, with multiple suppliers vying for limited demand segments, keeping overall prices under pressure. Outside China, purchasing activity in regions such as Latin America, Africa, and Southeast Asia has been notably weak, underlining the lack of diversified demand drivers.
By grade, HDPE film export prices were assessed at USD 830–850/mt FAS Houston, down USD 10/mt from the previous week. Injection grade fell more sharply, settling at USD 785–805/mt, a drop of USD 20/mt. Blow molding prices declined by USD 15/mt, assessed at USD 805–825/mt.
On the feedstock side, spot ethylene slipped to 20.50–21.00 cents/lb FOB US Gulf, losing 1.50 cents/lb week-on-week. However, US ethylene contract prices for July settled higher at 32.25 cents/lb, up 1.50 cents/lb from June, providing a modest offset to the otherwise bearish tone.
The latest movements underscore a market where US HDPE is heavily reliant on Chinese demand, leaving prices exposed to intensified competition and broader global weakness in polyethylene consumption.
