Asia
Polytetramethylene Ether Glycol (PTMEG) prices in China followed a predominantly wavering trajectory during the fourth quarter of 2024, closely mirroring trends in the upstream market. The decline was driven by reduced production costs and weak demand from industries such as textiles and spandex. Additionally, falling crude oil prices amid concerns of oversupply exerted further downward pressure. Most buyers delayed purchases, anticipating further price declines. However, toward the end of the quarter, there were slight price gains as butadiene prices stabilized and buying activity increased. Despite this, overall market sentiment remained subdued.
In Turkey, PTMEG prices also declined during the fourth quarter, although the decrease was less pronounced than in China. Prices stood at approximately $2,489 per metric ton (CIF) in October and $2,398 per metric ton (CIF) in December. Strong demand from applications such as spandex and polyurethane provided some support to prices. While the global decline in crude oil prices affected the market, Turkey's conditions remained relatively stable. Minor price increases were observed at the end of the quarter as feedstock prices stabilized and buying activity improved. However, the recovery remained limited.
Europe
In Europe, PTMEG prices mirrored the declining trend observed in China. Falling butadiene and crude oil prices reduced production costs, but subdued demand from downstream industries and excess supply hindered any significant price recovery. Additionally, an influx of imports from Asia exerted additional downward pressure. While some producers attempted to curb output to manage excess supply, the impact on prices was minimal. By the end of the quarter, prices had slightly stabilized, but overall market sentiment remained weak.
North America
North America's PTMEG market followed a similar trend, with prices declining alongside upstream market movements. Weak demand from the automobile and textile sectors contributed to overall market softness. Despite efforts by producers to limit production and manage inventories, oversupply continued to weigh on prices. Toward the end of the quarter, a marginal price increase was observed as butadiene prices stabilized. However, with demand remaining sluggish, the market failed to achieve any meaningful recovery, and a generally cautious sentiment prevailed.