A largely uneventful month / With weak demand, there is little room for movement in the coming weeks
Although the price of styrene, the most important feedstock, rose by 149 EUR/t in August, resin prices remained stable. Weak demand actually led to slightly lower prices in some cases—though these did not reflect the overall market. Depending on how demand develops over the coming weeks, the KI panel anticipates slight price increases or decreases. However, since the September styrene contract fell again by 140 EUR/t, price premiums will be difficult to justify. Some processors need slightly more material, though this does not actually boost overall demand.
Fiber optic prices are expected to remain stable through the fourth quarter. Freight rates from Asia to Europe have fallen significantly. As a result, with demand remaining weak, producers lack the leverage to raise prices.
Composites/GRP August: A largely uneventful month / Weak demand leaves little room for price movements in the coming weeks
Although the contract price for styrene, the main feedstock, rose by EUR 149/t in August, resin prices remained stable. Weak demand even led to slightly lower prices in isolated cases, although these were not representative of the market as a whole. PIE panelists expect slight increases or decreases, depending on how demand develops over the coming weeks. However, with the September styrene contract price falling again by EUR 140/t, producers will hardly be able to push through price increases. Some converters require slightly more material, but not enough to boost overall demand.
Glass fiber prices are expected to remain stable through the fourth quarter. Freight rates from Asia to Europe have fallen significantly. This, combined with weak demand, means sellers lack the leverage to raise prices.