Recycled polymer markets across the Middle East maintained a steady footing over the past week, with prices largely unchanged as balanced supply–demand fundamentals kept volatility in check. Industry participants pointed to stable inventories and reliable collection flows as the primary factors supporting price stability, even as downstream consumption remained tepid.
Converters continued to buy only what was immediately required, a cautious stance that prevented any buildup of excess stock. This measured approach helped keep supply aligned with demand, limiting the risk of sudden price swings. Market observers noted that without significant supply disruptions or a sharp change in buying patterns, recycled polymer prices are likely to remain range-bound in the near term.
Demand from certain key sectors, particularly packaging and consumer goods, stayed soft, placing a cap on any upward momentum. Traders emphasized that while collection volumes for recycled materials remain consistent, subdued purchasing from end users means sellers have little incentive to push prices higher.
Weekly assessments reflected this stability across a broad range of recycled grades. Recycled polypropylene (R-PP) prices were reported at USD 810–830/mt for Raffia (White), USD 620–640/mt for Recycling (Black), USD 850–870/mt for Natural, and USD 630–650/mt for Injection (Black). Recycled high-density polyethylene (R-HDPE) also held firm, with Film (Black) at USD 710–730/mt, Film (Natural) at USD 880–900/mt, Pipe (PE-100) at USD 940–960/mt, and Injection grades at USD 740–760/mt.
Low-density polyethylene (R-LDPE) prices were steady, with White at USD 960–980/mt, Black at USD 840–860/mt, Natural at USD 970–990/mt, and Mix Color at USD 830–850/mt. Linear low-density polyethylene (R-LLDPE) registered White at USD 800–820/mt, Black at USD 790–810/mt, and Natural at USD 940–960/mt. Recycled high-impact polystyrene (R-HIPS) hovered at USD 810–830/mt, with color grades at USD 755–775/mt and White at USD 835–855/mt.
Other key segments showed similar patterns. Recycled PVC Crush remained at USD 550–570/mt, recycled PET Crush at USD 550–570/mt, and recycled polycarbonate (R-PC) Crush at USD 1,070–1,090/mt. All prices are quoted on a free-on-board (FOB) Saudi Arabia basis.
Market analysts expect the current equilibrium to persist unless there is a sudden disruption in collection flows or an unexpected surge in demand. With no major feedstock shocks on the horizon and downstream sectors still purchasing cautiously, the region’s recycled polymer market appears set for a period of steady, range-bound trading.
