U.S. spot export prices for medium-grade ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) slipped this week, weighed down by weak buying interest and plentiful supply. An industry source told a team member that “spot export prices for EVA in the U.S. dipped slightly, influenced by a market situation characterized by low demand and plentiful supply. Purchasing interest continued to be low, and sentiment remained wary, leading to ongoing downward pressure on prices.”
Export demand was mixed. Some inquiries from Latin American buyers lent limited support, but overall interest from Asia stayed muted, with competitive offers from other regions curbing U.S. participation. Seasonal trends also played a part as slower activity in packaging and footwear dampened consumption. Buyers stuck to a just-in-time approach, meeting immediate needs rather than building inventories, which further restrained spot trade.
Supply conditions remained stable, with no major disruptions reported and local producers running at steady rates. Still, market participants cautioned that any hitch in ethylene feedstock production or logistics could quickly tighten availability and revive sentiment, given the price sensitivity of international buyers.
On Thursday, EVA prices were assessed at USD 1,120–1,130 per metric ton FAS Houston, down USD 15 from the previous week.
In Asia, EVA values held steady at USD 1,255–1,265 per metric ton CFR Far East Asia, supported by consistent supply and ongoing photovoltaic industry demand. Yet market watchers noted that the appearance of stability stems more from subdued trading than from solid fundamentals.
European EVA prices also weakened through September, with demand that typically arrives this time of year now expected to shift into October, keeping fourth-quarter sentiment soft.
