Linear Low Density Polyethylene (LLDPE) prices drift lower in Europe

This week, LLDPE prices declined in the European region.

An industry source in Europe informed a Polymerupdate team member, “The European market momentum remained subdued amid prevailing sluggish demand trends. Prices were further pressured lower on the back of ample product availability coupled with competitively priced import cargoes from overseas suppliers. Meanwhile, a majority converters in the region took their plants offstream or reduced operational rates at their production facilities during the summer holiday season.”

The source added, “Furthermore, a few buyers anticipated prices to bottom out as crude prices rallied. A majority of market participants reportedly adopted a cautious approach as they await the ethylene feedstock contract price settlement to gauge the market mood in the near to medium term.”

In the spot markets, LLDPE prices were assessed at the Euro 875-885/mt FD Northwest Europe levels, a week on week fall of Euro (-20/mt).

In the contract markets, LLDPE grade prices were assessed at the Euro 1460-1465/mt FD NWE Germany and FD NWE France levels, both down Euro (-10/mt). LLDPE grade prices were assessed at the Euro 1460-1465/mt FD NWE Italy levels, a drop of Euro (-10/mt) from the previous week. Meanwhile, LLDPE grade prices were assessed at the GBP 1250-1255/mt FD NWE UK levels, a week on week decline of GBP (-25/mt).

FCA Antwerp LLDPE film prices were assessed at the Euro 860-890/mt levels, a fall of Euro (-20/mt) from last week.

Ethylene spot prices on Thursday were assessed at the Euro 590-600/mt FD North West Europe levels, a week on week rise of Euro (+15/mt).

Feedstock ethylene contract price for July 2023 settled at the Euro 1120/MT FD North West Europe levels. This price represents a fall of Euro 40/MT from its June 2023 settlement levels.