Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) export prices in the United States moved lower this week, extending a steady downward trend brought on by ample supply and muted buying interest. Market participants told that spot values eased as sellers faced the twin challenge of elevated inventories and subdued demand from key downstream sectors such as packaging and film.
According to one industry source, U.S. producers and traders are contending with abundant availability in both domestic and export channels, creating intense competition to place material. Buyers, by contrast, are showing little urgency to secure volumes, pointing to comfortable stock levels and ongoing macroeconomic pressures that have slowed consumption. This mix of plentiful supply and restrained purchasing continues to weigh on market sentiment and limits the likelihood of a short-term rebound.
Free-Alongside-Ship (FAS) Houston export prices for LDPE were assessed at USD 940–960 per metric ton, a decline of about USD 20 from the previous week’s range. The drop highlights the pressure sellers face as they work to clear excess resin amid a sluggish global trading environment.
Upstream indicators remained steady, offering no catalyst for change. Spot ethylene along the U.S. Gulf Coast held flat at 20.00–20.50 cents per pound on a Free-on-Board basis, unchanged week on week. The U.S. ethylene contract price for August 2025 settled at 32.00 cents per pound, edging down only 0.25 cents from July’s settlement level.
Traders say market direction will hinge on whether production cutbacks or a seasonal uptick in demand can reduce inventory overhangs in the months ahead. Until then, competitive pricing and buyer caution are expected to define the LDPE export market.
