The US linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) export market paused its downward trajectory this week, with prices holding steady after two consecutive weeks of declines. Market participants described the stability less as a signal of recovery and more as a temporary lull, as buyers and sellers alike delayed fresh commitments while awaiting clearer guidance on September pricing trends.
An industry source told that US spot export LLDPE values remained unchanged as trading activity slowed, with many players opting to adopt a wait-and-see approach. “Sentiment stayed cautious, with numerous individuals postponing new transactions until suppliers provide updated pricing direction,” the source said. Despite hopes for improved demand, weak downstream consumption across key global regions such as Latin America and Asia continued to cap momentum, leaving sellers focused on monitoring competitive offers from overseas markets.
FAS Houston export prices for LLDPE were assessed at USD 830–850/mt, unchanged from the previous week. While the halt in declines offered sellers a momentary reprieve, participants emphasized that the market remains fundamentally weak, with little sign of sustained demand recovery in the near term.
Upstream, ethylene dynamics provided no additional support. Spot ethylene prices in the US Gulf were assessed flat at 20.50–21.00 cents/lb FOB, while the August ethylene contract settled at 32.00 cents/lb, a marginal decrease of 0.25 cents/lb from July. Market watchers observed that this slight reduction reflected broader supply-demand balance in olefins rather than any major shift in fundamentals.
Industry participants suggested that September will be a pivotal month, as suppliers announce fresh pricing strategies and buyers weigh inventory positions ahead of seasonal demand cycles. Until then, the stability in US LLDPE exports is seen as a pause rather than a turning point.
