- Global nylon prices showed a mixed trend in Q1’26, with Asia transitioning from weak stability to sharp cost-driven increases toward quarter-end.
- Feedstock influence remained dominant as caprolactam prices shifted from stable to sharply higher, driving production cost escalation.
- Downstream demand from textiles remained seasonally weak and largely need-based, limiting the sustainability of price increases.
In China, nylon (polyamide filament) prices moved from weak to strong across Q1’26, driven mainly by feedstock dynamics and subdued demand. In January, prices remained low and stable due to ample caprolactam supply and high domestic self-sufficiency, which reduced import dependence and kept cost support limited. Stable operating rates ensured sufficient supply, while rising inventories reflected oversupply conditions. Downstream demand remained weak due to the seasonal slowdown in the textile and apparel sectors, with procurement limited to essential needs. In February, prices increased as caprolactam costs strengthened amid tighter supply, leading to cost pass-through despite sluggish trading activity and cautious downstream buying. Demand improved slightly with post-holiday restocking and stable export orders, but remained insufficient to drive strong momentum. In March, prices surged sharply due to significant feedstock cost escalation, forcing producers to raise quotations; however, weak downstream demand and resistance to high prices led to reduced procurement and a slight correction toward the end of the month.