High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Price Trend

HDPE Prices December 2023

The price of HDPE in the USA experienced a fluctuation during the fourth quarter of 2023. In November, export offers emerged, reminding some producers to adjust their costs downwards to reflect the low international sentiment, likely influenced by declining crude oil prices. Additionally, supply chain disruptions were observed due to low water levels in the Panama Canal, which affected the prices of HDPE in the country, reaching 1230 USD/MT (HDPE Blow Moulding Grade).

In the fourth quarter of 2023, the Asia-Pacific region witnessed a mixed trend in HDPE prices, with the Indian and Chinese markets initially declining but bouncing back in December. Conversely, markets in Singapore, South Korea, and Japan experienced a downward trajectory during this period. The quarter concluded with HDPE prices quoted at 954 USD/MT (HDPE Blow Moulding Grade) in Japan.

The HDPE market in the United Kingdom observed decline in prices reaching 1238 USD/MT (HDPE Injection) in December 2023, mainly due to low demand in the downstream packaging and construction industry. On the other hand, the top factors influencing the market included lackluster economic conditions and high product supplies.

In the fourth quarter of 2023, the Middle Eastern HDPE prices experienced a marginal decline due to the easing of feedstock ethylene and crude oil costs, which results lowered production costs. Moreover, negative demand sentiments from Asian and European markets contributed to the downward shift in prices. The quarter ending prices of HDPE in UAE reached 1048 USD/MT (HDPE Injection Molding).

In Brazil, at the end of the Q4 2023, manufacturing industry continued to decrease, with output and new orders reducing for the third consecutive month. This led to a reduction in input buying as companies prioritized utilization over adding to inventories. As a result, the price of HDPE by the end of the quarter in the country was quoted at USD 1068 USD/MT (HDPE Blow Moulding Grade).

HDPE Price Trend, Market Analysis, and News

IMARC’s newly published report, titled “HDPE Pricing Report 2024: Price Trend, Chart, Market Analysis, News, Demand, Historical and Forecast Data,” offers an in-depth analysis of HDPE pricing, covering an analysis of global and regional market trends and the critical factors driving these price movements.

It encompasses an in-depth review of spot price of HDPE at major ports, a breakdown of prices including Ex Works, FOB, and CIF, alongside a region-wise dissection of HDPE price trend across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, the Middle East and Africa.

The report examines the elements influencing HDPE price fluctuations, such as changes in raw material costs, supply-demand dynamics, geopolitical factors, and industry-specific developments. Additionally, it integrates the latest market news, providing stakeholders with up-to-date information on market shifts, regulatory changes, and technological advancements, thereby offering a comprehensive overview that aids in strategic decision-making and forecasting.

HDPE Market Analysis

The global HDPE market size reached US$ 81.3 Billion in 2023. By 2032, IMARC Group expects the market to reach US$ 113.7 Billion, at a projected CAGR of 3.7% during 2023-2032.

• The increasing focus on sustainability is catalyzing the demand for HDPE as it is recyclable and can be remodeled for various applications, aligning with environmental goals.
• The growing infrastructure projects across the globe, mainly in construction, water management, and transportation, are driving the demand for HDPE in pipes, sheets, and other products.
• According to IMARC Group’s report, the global food packaging market size reached US$ 385.1 Billion in 2023 and is expected to reach US$ 611.6 Billion by 2032. HDPE is gaining traction in the food packaging industry for providing protection to food products during transportation and storage.
• The increasing HDPE as a substitution of traditional materials like glass, metal, and wood in the automotive, agriculture, and consumer goods industries due to its cost-effectiveness and performance advantages is impelling the market growth.
• The World Bank’s report of 2023 claims that around 50% of the population resides in urban areas, which is expected to increase by 1.5 times to 6 billion by 2045. Rapid urbanization and population growth is driving the demand for HDPE products in urban infrastructure and waste management, mainly in developing countries.
• Ongoing research and development (R&D) activities are leading to the innovations of new grades and applications of HDPE, expanding its market potential while driving innovations.
• Supportive regulations and standards promoting the utilization of HDPE in multiple applications is contributing to the growth of the market for ensuring compliance and safety.
• As per IMARC group’s, the global biodegradable packaging market is expected to reach US$ 166.2 Billion by 2032. The growing awareness among individuals about sustainable and eco-friendly packaging materials is positively influencing the HDPE packaging market.
• The rising employment of HDPE for manufacturing medical devices, laboratory equipment, and packaging materials, as its biocompatibility, chemical resistance, and sterilizability can meet the stringent requirements of medical applications is supporting the market growth.

HDPE News

The report covers the latest developments, updates, and trends impacting the global HDPE market, providing stakeholders with timely and relevant information. This segment covers a wide array of news items, including the inauguration of new production facilities, advancements in HDPE production technologies, strategic market expansions by key industry players, and significant mergers and acquisitions that impact the HDPE price trend.

Latest developments in the HDPE industry:

• March 2024: LyondellBasell, a leading polyolefin technology licensor, has licensed its Spheripol polypropylene and Hostalen ACP high-density polyethylene (HDPE) technologies to Inner Mongolia Rongxin Co., Ltd. for a new 500 KTA PP plant and 400 KTA HDPE plant in China. The Hostalen ACP technology produces high-performance, multi-modal HDPE resins with improved stiffness, toughness, and impact resistance for applications like pressure pipe, film, and blow molding.
• In 2024, ISCO announced that they have agreed to acquire substantially all of the assets of Infinity Plastics, a top manufacturer of fabricated HDPE piping products.

Product Description

High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is a plastic known for its high strength-to-density ratio and resistance to various solvents, which makes it suitable for multiple ranges of applications. It is mainly valued for its durability, flexibility, and recyclability. It can resist harsh environmental conditions like temperature variations and exposure to chemicals. Furthermore, it is highly flexible and can be easily molded into multiple shapes, allowing customization in the process.

HDPE is resistant to corrosion from chemicals and moisture, making it a preferred material for piping systems that can be used in applications, such as water distribution, sewage, and gas transportation. It is widely employed in agriculture irrigation systems for transporting water to fields. It is also utilized in the manufacturing of toys, playground equipment, and recreational goods owing to its safety and durability to weathering and ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Besides this, it assists in manufacturing packaging products like containers, jars, and bottles, as its lightweight nature makes it ideal for storage of various liquids, including beverages and personal care products.

Regional Coverage

The report provides a detailed analysis of the HDPE market across different regions, each with unique pricing dynamics influenced by localized market conditions, supply chain intricacies, and geopolitical factors. This includes price trends, price forecast and supply and demand trends for each region, along with spot prices by major ports. The report also provides coverage of ex-works, FOB, and CIF prices, as well as the key factors influencing the HDPE price trend.

Global HDPE Price

The report offers a holistic view of the global HDPE pricing trends in the form of HDPE price charts, reflecting the worldwide interplay of supply-demand balances, international trade policies, and overarching economic factors that shape the market on a macro level. This comprehensive analysis not only highlights current price of HDPE but also provides insights into historical price trends, enabling stakeholders to understand past fluctuations and their underlying causes.

The report also delves into price forecast models, projecting future price movements based on a variety of indicators such as expected changes in supply chain dynamics, anticipated policy shifts, and emerging market trends. By examining these factors, the report equips industry participants with the necessary tools to make informed strategic decisions, manage risks, and capitalize on market opportunities. Furthermore, it includes a detailed HDPE demand analysis, breaking down regional variations and identifying key drivers specific to each geographic market, thus offering a nuanced understanding of the global pricing landscape.

Europe HDPE Price

The European region has experienced a mixed demand outlook, with a temporary decline in October followed by a decrease for the remaining quarter. Market sources showed that European PE producers faced significant cost pressure amongst low-demand fundamentals, impacting profitability. Accordingly, there were discussions among market participants about potential increase in prices.

This analysis can be extended to include detailed HDPE price information for a comprehensive list of countries.

North America HDPE Price

As November and December approached, HDPE prices in North America trended downwards due to declining upstream naphtha and crude oil costs, along with lowered market demand globally. While domestic demand remained stable, export adoption from Asian traders decreased, although there were ongoing inquiries from Latin America and Europe, despite at reduced levels.

Specific HDPE historical data within the United States and Canada can also be provided.

Middle East and Africa HDPE Price

The HDPE market in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region experienced an initial increase followed by a slight decrease, eventually stabilizing by the end of the quarter. October saw a rise in prices driven by sustained demand from downstream sectors, particularly in the packaging and construction industries, which opposed declines in feedstock ethylene and upstream naphtha costs.

In addition to region-wise data, information on HDPE prices for countries can also be provided.

Asia Pacific HDPE Price

The HDPE pricing in the Asia Pacific region witnessed a mixed trend. In India, the market remained moderately optimistic, while Singapore and South Korea faced negative conditions due to slow domestic demand and lower prices of imported materials. Japan experienced significant price fluctuations, mainly owing to a strengthen supply of light grades resulting from refinery maintenance activities in the Middle East and reduced trade inflows, leading to increased costs.

This HDPE price analysis can be expanded to include a comprehensive list of countries within the region.

Latin America HDPE Price

The analysis of HDPE prices in Latin America provides a detailed overview, reflecting the unique market dynamics in the region influenced by economic policies, industrial growth, and trade frameworks.

This comprehensive review can be extended to include specific countries within the region.

Report Coverage

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report presents a detailed analysis of HDPE pricing, covering global and regional trends, spot prices at key ports, and a breakdown of Ex Works, FOB, and CIF prices.
• The study examines factors affecting HDPE price trend, including raw material costs, supply-demand shifts, geopolitical impacts, and industry developments, offering insights for informed decision-making.
• The competitive landscape review equips stakeholders with crucial insights into the latest market news, regulatory changes, and technological advancements, ensuring a well-rounded, strategic overview for forecasting and planning.
• IMARC offers various subscription options, including monthly, quarterly, and biannual updates, allowing clients to stay informed with the latest market trends, ongoing developments, and comprehensive market insights. The HDPE price charts ensure our clients remain at the forefront of the industry.