Throughout Q1 2025, LDPE Film Grade prices in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, followed an upward trend, rising by around 5.4% from the previous quarter to an average of USD 1,208/MT. The price increase was mainly supported by strong restocking activities at the start of the new year, a positive trading atmosphere, and healthy demand from the downstream flexible packaging and agricultural film industries. Buying momentum further strengthened ahead of the Chinese Lunar New Year, boosting regional and export demand. No major supply disruptions were reported locally, but firm consumption and tightness in global availability supported the price rise. Feedstock Ethylene prices stayed relatively firm due to stable naphtha values and controlled cracker operations, keeping production costs elevated and pushing LDPE prices higher. The product Prices also edged up in different regions, like Europe and Asia. However, in the US LDPE market prices remained stable on a quarterly basis. In China, LDPE Film Grade prices (CIF Shanghai, Saudi origin) rose by approximately 5.1%, driven by stronger buying interest supported by cheaper imports from Saudi Arabia.
Throughout Q4 2024, LDPE Film Grade prices in Antwerp, Belgium, followed a downward trend, falling by around 7.2% from the previous quarter to an average of USD 1,232/MT. The decline was mainly driven by weaker demand from the downstream flexible packaging and construction film industries, as year-end seasonality and cautious buying behaviour slowed market activity. No major supply disruptions were reported during the quarter, and logistics conditions improved as Red Sea-related bottlenecks eased. Feedstock Ethylene prices softened due to lower naphtha costs and improved cracker operations, reducing production costs and dragging LDPE prices downward. Prices also declined in other regions, with the USA, Mexico, and Brazil witnessing a similar downward trend. In Mexico, LDPE prices dropped by approximately 8%, largely due to cheaper product imports from overseas markets.
Throughout Q3 2024, LDPE Film Grade prices increased in the Global market. In Antwerp, Belgium, LDPE Market showed an upward trend, with prices rising by around 2% from the previous quarter to an average of USD 1,327/MT. The increase was mainly driven by stronger demand from the downstream flexible and food packaging industries, which ramped up purchases ahead of the holiday season. Although no major supply disruptions occurred in Europe during this period, the ongoing effects of the Red Sea crisis kept global logistics strained, indirectly supporting firm prices. Feedstock Ethylene prices stayed elevated due to strong naphtha costs and some cracker outages in Northwest Europe, pushing production costs higher.
In Q2 2024, the European LDPE market encountered significant challenges, driven by persistent downward pressure on prices. This decline was primarily due to reduced demand from key downstream industries, such as construction and automotive. The weakened demand was compounded by high inventory levels, resulting in an oversupply, even amid occasional logistical disruptions, including severe weather events in Germany. Additionally, increased global exports from the USA and the Middle East heightened competitive pressures, exacerbating the supply glut. Economic uncertainty and rising inflation across the Eurozone further dampened consumer confidence and spending, further suppressing demand. Germany experienced the most notable price decline, with a 9.3% drop, reflecting broader market trends throughout the quarter.
In Q1 2024, Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) prices exhibited a bullish trend across North America, APAC, MEA, and European markets, with the US market seeing a notable 19% price increase. Several key factors contributed to this upward momentum. Strong demand from major industries, especially construction, played a pivotal role. Increased construction activity and positive business sentiment fuelled overall economic growth, enhancing confidence in future market prospects. Additionally, rising feedstock costs, particularly for Ethylene, driven by escalating upstream Naphtha and Crude Oil prices, pushed production costs higher, further elevating LDPE prices. The US market experienced the most significant price movements, with steady increases observed throughout the quarter.
Throughout Q1 2025, LDPE Film Grade CIF Nhava Sheva prices rose by 5.0% quarter-on-quarter to USD 1,277/MT, indicating expensive imports from Saudi Arabia amid strong restocking demand after the New Year and ahead of the Indian festive season. Injection Moulding Grade Ex-Hazira prices stayed almost flat with a slight 0.1% increase, suggesting balanced domestic supply-demand conditions. In contrast, Film Grade Ex-Hazira prices dipped by 0.4% as local availability improved and price competition intensified despite the strong import price trend.
In Q4 2024, LDPE Film Grade CIF Nhava Sheva prices posted a marginal increase of 1.1%, suggesting imports from Saudi Arabia remained moderately expensive but supply was sufficient. Injection Moulding Grade Ex-Hazira prices dropped by 4.9%, and Film Grade Ex-Hazira prices fell by 2.7%, as domestic demand softened toward the year-end and local producers adjusted prices to remain competitive against imported volumes.
During Q3 2024, LDPE Film Grade CIF Nhava Sheva prices rose by 4.6% quarter-on-quarter, supported by slightly expensive imports from Saudi Arabia. However, Injection Moulding Grade Ex-Hazira prices declined by 2.9%, indicating weaker domestic demand or competitive pricing pressures, while Film Grade Ex-Hazira prices continued a mild upward trend with a 2.0% increase. Overall, domestic market sentiment remained mixed, depending on grade-specific demand.
Throughout Q2 2024, LDPE prices continued to upward trend but at. Film Grade CIF Nhava Sheva prices climbed 6.3%, reflecting moderately expensive imports from Saudi Arabia. Injection Moulding Grade Ex-Hazira prices grew by 2.9%, while Film Grade Ex-Hazira prices increased by 2.6%. Improved demand from downstream industry, particularly from the packaging sector, and relatively firm feedstock costs kept domestic and import prices supported.
Throughout Q1 2024, LDPE prices across India showed a strong upward trend. Film Grade CIF Nhava Sheva prices rose by 9.3% quarter-on-quarter to USD 1,082/MT, mainly driven by expensive imports from Saudi Arabia amid limited supply. Injection Moulding Grade Ex-Hazira prices increased by 5.7%, and Film Grade Ex-Hazira prices surged by 12.0%, supported by strong domestic demand and seasonal restocking activities during the early part of the year.
PriceWatch is your trusted resource for tracking global low-density polyethylene price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the low-density polyethylene market. By monitoring critical events such as geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and economic shifts, PriceWatch keeps you fully informed of market dynamics.
In addition, PriceWatch provides detailed forecasts and updates on production capacities, enabling you to anticipate market changes and make well-informed decisions. With PriceWatch, you gain a competitive edge in understanding all the elements that influence low-density polyethylene prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with PriceWatch’s reliable, accurate, and timely low-density polyethylene market data.
Track PriceWatch's low-density polyethylene price assessment on a weekly basis since 2015 onwards, along with short-term forecasts, and get access to the detailed report in a downloadable format.
This research methodology ensures that PriceWatch delivers the most accurate, timely, and actionable LDPE pricing assessments, helping our clients stay ahead of market trends and make informed business decisions.
Molecular Weight[g/mol]
CAS No
HS Code
Molecular Formula
Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) is a highly versatile thermoplastic polymer widely recognized for its flexibility, durability, and lightweight nature. Derived from the polymerization of ethylene, LDPE has a lower density compared to other polyethylene types, giving it a soft, pliable structure. This makes it ideal for various applications, such as packaging films, plastic bags, agricultural films, and containers. It offers excellent resistance to moisture, chemicals, and impact, which ensures its durability in both every day and industrial environments. LDPE is easily processed through extrusion and moulding techniques, making it a preferred material for manufacturing flexible packaging, squeeze bottles, and protective films. Its widespread use extends to electrical insulation, construction materials, and agricultural applications. With its recyclable nature, LDPE also supports sustainability efforts, making it a reliable and eco-friendly material choice across multiple industries.
Packaging Type
Grades Covered
Incoterms Used
Synonym
PriceWatch Quotation Terms:
Ex-Location: This incoterm refers to a shipping agreement where the seller makes the goods available at their premises, and the buyer is responsible for all transportation costs, including shipping, insurance, and any other fees.
CIF: CIF refers to the Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) terms for goods. Under CIF terms, the seller is responsible for the cost of goods, insurance, and freight charges until the goods reach the port of destination.
FD: FD stands for Free Delivered where the seller takes full responsibility for delivering goods to the location/port. This ensures the buyer receives the goods at the designated port with all necessary costs, except import duties, covered.
FOB: FOB refers to the Free On-Board shipping term, where the seller is responsible for the cost and risk of delivering the goods to the port. Once the goods are on board the vessel, the responsibility shifts to the buyer for all costs, including shipping and insurance.
Property | Specification (Film Grade) | Specification (Injection Moulding Grade) |
Melt Flow Index | 1gm/10 min | 30gm/10 min |
Vicat Softening Point | 100-110⁰C | 84⁰C |
Tensile Strength | 12-12.5MPa | 10MPa |
Elongation | 700-800% | 40% |
Density | 0.918 g/cc | 0.918 g/cc |
Melting Temperature | 120-130⁰C | 110-130⁰C |
Applications
Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) is a versatile polymer with a wide range of applications across various industries due to its unique properties, such as high tensile strength, flexibility, and impact resistance. Its primary use is in the packaging industry, where it is commonly used to manufacture stretch films, plastic bags, and liners for both consumer and industrial packaging. LDPE is also widely used in the production of agricultural films, offering durability and protection in harsh environmental conditions. Additionally, it is used in the manufacturing of household goods like containers, lids, and toys, as well as in the production of geomembranes and pond liners for environmental applications. Its excellent chemical resistance and durability make it ideal for piping and tubing applications, particularly in water and gas distribution systems.
LDPE prices are primarily influenced by the cost of Ethylene, derived from Crude Oil and Naphtha. Other key factors include supply and demand dynamics, with increased demand from industries like packaging and construction driving prices up, while oversupply reduces them. Logistics issues, such as shipping disruptions or high freight rates, and regional market conditions, including economic growth and local regulations, also play a role in LDPE pricing.
Procurement managers can secure the best LDPE prices by monitoring global market trends, locking in long-term contracts to mitigate price volatility, and buying in bulk to negotiate better rates. Diversifying suppliers across different regions can also provide leverage and reduce risk, ensuring more competitive pricing.
Global events like geopolitical tensions, natural disasters, and economic shifts can significantly impact LDPE prices. Rising crude oil prices, supply chain disruptions, or reduced demand from economic slowdowns can drive prices up or down, making it essential for procurement managers to stay informed and anticipate market shifts.
Copyright 2025. All rights reserved. Nidhyana Price Watch Data Analytics Private Limited