Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) export prices in the United States fell sharply this week, sinking below USD 600/mt as oversupply and weak demand continued to dominate market dynamics. Traders said the steep decline has raised expectations that producers may eventually cut operating rates to stem further price losses, although no such moves have been confirmed.
A US-based market source told, “US export prices for PVC were evaluated under USD 600/mt, indicating a notable decline in the market. Buyers are already taking advantage of the weak sentiment, moving to secure October shipments at these low levels. For now, producers have maintained elevated operating rates despite mounting downward pressure.”
On a FAS Houston basis, PVC export prices were assessed at USD 560–570/mt, down USD 40/mt from the prior week. Feedstock movements provided little relief, with VCM slipping to USD 440–450/mt FOB US Gulf, down USD 10/mt, while EDC held flat at USD 105–115/mt. Upstream ethylene softened as well, assessed at 20.50–21.00 cents/lb FOB US Gulf, lower by 1.50 cents/lb on the week.
In contrast, Asia showed strength, with CFR China PVC rising to USD 710–730/mt, up USD 20–30/mt week-on-week. The divergence highlights the widening disconnect between US and Asian markets, with American producers struggling to balance high output against lackluster demand, while Asian markets see modest buying momentum.
The sharp drop in US prices has left sentiment fragile, with buyers emboldened to negotiate aggressively and producers under intensifying pressure to manage operating rates in the weeks ahead.
