nylon-6 Pricing Assessment

Markets Covered:

Taiwan

China

Korea

Australia

New Zealand

Japan

Indonesia

India

Nylon-6 Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast

In the first quarter of 2024, the global Nylon-6 market exhibited a bullish trend, with prices increasing by 6% compared to Q4 2023. This rise was driven by escalating prices of feedstock Caprolactam, along with higher freight rates and improved global capacity utilization. A 7.4% uptick in container port volumes and a 10.4% growth in container ship supply further contributed to rising freight costs. Additionally, steady demand from downstream industries, especially automotive and textiles, enabled manufacturers to pass on these increased expenses. Seasonal factors, such as the Lunar New Year, also played a role in this bullish trend, as many factories in Asia were either shut down or operated at reduced capacity, which resulted in product shortages in the global market.

In the second quarter of 2024, Nylon-6 prices experienced a decline due to several key factors. Weak demand from downstream industries, particularly textiles and automotive, led manufacturers to lower prices to stimulate sales. Additionally, improved supply conditions following production resumption from major producers contributed to increased availability. Fluctuating feedstock prices for Caprolactam, along with the influx of cheaper imports, further pressured local prices downward. Broader economic conditions, including inflation and cautious consumer spending, also played a role in dampening demand across sectors reliant on Nylon-6 products.

In the third quarter of 2024, Nylon-6 prices experienced a slight decrease due to several factors. Demand from downstream industries, particularly textiles and automotive, remained weak, prompting manufacturers to lower prices to stimulate sales. Improved supply conditions following production resumption from major producers also contributed to increased availability, putting downward pressure on prices. Additionally, fluctuations in feedstock costs for Caprolactam, along with broader economic factors such as inflation and cautious consumer spending, further dampened demand. The price of Nylon-6 in China was hovered around USD 1835/MT (FOB Shanghai).

Nylon-6 prices in the fourth quarter of 2024 are expected to continue the current trends, with expectations of stable to slightly declining prices. During the winter season, the market is anticipated to face weak demand, particularly from the construction sector. Demand from the automotive industry may see a modest increase as festivals like Christmas and Diwali significantly impact automobile sales, often leading to increased consumer spending and heightened demand for vehicles. However, overall growth in the automotive sector is expected to be flat due to cautious consumer spending.

Why ?

is your trusted resource for tracking global benzene price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the benzene market. By monitoring critical events such as geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and economic shifts, keeps you fully informed of market dynamics.

In addition, provides detailed forecasts and updates on production capacities, enabling you to anticipate market changes and make well-informed decisions. With , you gain a competitive edge in understanding all the elements that influence benzene prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with ’s reliable, accurate, and timely Lactic Acid market data.

Track ‘s benzene 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.

is your trusted resource for tracking global nylon-6 price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the nylon-6 market. By monitoring critical events such as geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and economic shifts, keeps you fully informed of market dynamics.

In addition, provides detailed forecasts and updates on production capacities, enabling you to anticipate market changes and make well-informed decisions. With , you gain a competitive edge in understanding all the elements that influence nylon-6 prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with ’s reliable, accurate, and timely nylon-6 market data.

Track 's nylon-6 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.

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in nylon-6 prices

COVID-19 Pandemic (2020-2022): The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on the Nylon-6 market, leading to significant price fluctuations. As countries implemented lockdowns and restrictions to curb the spread of the virus, demand for Nylon-6 products plummeted, particularly from the textile and automotive industries, which were heavily affected. Factories faced operational challenges, leading to production halts and supply chain disruptions. Consequently, prices fell sharply as manufacturers were forced to sell off excess inventory at lower prices to maintain cash flow. The pandemic’s ripple effects created uncertainty in the market, resulting in volatility that lasted well into 2021 as industries gradually began to recover.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict (2022-Present): The outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine war in early 2022 significantly impacted global energy prices, which in turn affected Nylon-6 production costs. As European energy prices surged due to the conflict, producers faced increased operational expenses, leading to substantial price hikes for Nylon-6. Additionally, the war’s economic repercussions led to decreased demand from key sectors such as textiles and construction, further complicating the market dynamics. The ongoing conflict and its impact on energy availability created a volatile environment for Nylon-6 pricing throughout 2022 and into 2023.

U.S.-China Trade War (2018-2019): Tariffs on chemicals and textiles, including Nylon-6, disrupted global trade flows, leading to price volatility due to supply chain uncertainties, especially between the U.S. and China.

Methodology and Specifications

nylon-6 Pricing Assessment Research Methodology

Data Collection and Sources

Real-Time Market Data: aggregates real-time pricing data from a diverse range of sources, including global commodity exchanges, industry reports, and proprietary databases. This ensures that our assessments reflect the most current market conditions.
On-the-Ground Intelligence: Our team gathers insights directly from key market participants, including producers, suppliers, traders, and end-users, across major Nylon 6 production hubs. This ground-level intelligence is crucial for understanding localized market dynamics.
Supply Chain Monitoring: We track the entire Nylon 6 supply chain, from raw material availability (Caprolactam) to production and distribution channels. This includes monitoring feedstock prices, production capacities, and transportation logistics.

Event Tracking and Impact Analysis

Geopolitical Tensions: continuously monitors global geopolitical developments, such as conflicts or trade disputes, which can significantly impact Nylon 6 prices. Our analysis includes potential disruptions to supply chains and their immediate and long-term effects on pricing.
Natural Disasters and Climate Events: We assess the impact of natural disasters, such as hurricanes or winter storms, on Nylon 6 production facilities, particularly in vulnerable regions like the U.S. Gulf Coast. These events are factored into our price forecasts and supply outlooks.
Economic Shifts: evaluates macroeconomic trends, including global economic growth, inflation rates, and sector-specific demand (e.g., textile), to predict shifts in Nylon 6 demand and corresponding price movements.

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

Current Production Monitoring: We maintain a comprehensive database of global Nylon 6 production facilities, tracking their operational status, maintenance schedules, and output levels. This allows us to assess current supply availability accurately.
Future Capacity Projections: Our research includes detailed forecasts of upcoming Nylon 6 production capacities, factoring in new plant constructions, expansions, and technological advancements. This helps in predicting future supply trends and potential price stabilization.

Demand Forecasting

Sectoral Demand Analysis: provides in-depth analysis of demand trends across key sectors, including textiles, construction etc… We track year-on-year demand growth and project future consumption patterns based on economic indicators and industry developments.
Global Demand Dynamics: Our methodology considers regional demand variations and how they influence global Nylon 6 pricing. This includes understanding the impact of shifts in manufacturing bases, trade policies, and environmental regulations.

Pricing Model Development

Dynamic Pricing Models: utilizes advanced econometric models to forecast Nylon 6 prices, incorporating real-time data, historical trends, and projected market conditions. Our models are continuously refined to enhance accuracy and predictive power.
Scenario Analysis: We conduct scenario-based assessments to evaluate potential future market conditions. This includes best-case, worst-case, and most likely scenarios, helping our clients prepare for a range of market outcomes.

Reporting and Client Support

Comprehensive Reports: Our clients receive detailed reports that include current price assessments, future price forecasts, and in-depth analysis of market drivers. These reports are designed to be actionable, providing clear insights and recommendations.
Ongoing Support: offers continuous updates and personalized support to our clients, ensuring they have the most up-to-date information to make informed decisions. Our experts are available to discuss specific market developments and provide tailored advice.

This research methodology ensures that delivers the most accurate, timely, and actionable Nylon 6 pricing assessments, helping our clients stay ahead of market trends and make informed business decisions.

Specifications

Molecular Weight[g/mol]

10,000 to 40,000

CAS No

25038-54-4

HS Code

39081010

Molecular Formula

(C6H11NO) n

nylon-6

Nylon 6 is a versatile synthetic polymer widely used across various industries due to its unique combination of properties. It is produced through the ring-opening polymerization of Caprolactam, a six-carbon compound, resulting in a semi-crystalline structure that offers both strength and flexibility. Nylon 6 is characterized by its high tensile strength, excellent abrasion resistance, and good thermal stability, making it suitable for demanding applications.

Packaging Type

25 kg Bag

Grades Covered

Textile grade, Non-reinforced Injection moulding grade

Incoterms Used

FOB Kaohsiung, FOB Shanghai, FOB Laem Chabang, CIF Busan (China), CIF Melbourne (China), CIF Auckland (China), CIF Tokyo (China), CIF Jakarta (China), CIF Nhava Sheva (China), Ex- Mumbai

Synonym

Polyamide 6, Polycaprolactam, PA6

Quotation Terms:

25-28 MT, 10-15 MT(Thailand)

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.

Technical specification for Nylon 6 (Textile grade)

Property	Specification (Textile grade)
Relative viscosity	2.45-2.75
Moisture content	<0.06%
Extractable material	<0.6%
Amine end group	45-55 mmol/kg

Technical specification for Nylon 6 (Non-reinforced injection moulding)

Property	Specification (non-reinforced injection moulding)
Colour	Natural
Density	1.14 g/cm³
Tensile Strength at yield	85 MPa
Charpy impact strength (A Notched)	5 KJ/m²
Mold shrinkage (MD)	1.2 %

Applications

Nylon 6 is a versatile synthetic polymer widely used across various industries due to its unique combination of properties. In the textile and apparel sector, it is employed to produce fabrics for clothing, sportswear, and carpets, thanks to its strength and durability. The automotive industry utilizes Nylon 6 for components such as engine covers, fuel tanks, and connectors, benefiting from its heat and chemical resistance. Additionally, its excellent electrical insulation properties make it suitable for electrical connectors and circuit breakers. Nylon 6 is also used in industrial applications for manufacturing gears, bearings, and conveyor belts, as well as in packaging for films and containers due to its durability. Furthermore, it finds applications in products like tire cords, seat belts, fishing nets, and ropes. Overall, the diverse applications of Nylon 6 highlight its importance as a material in both consumer products and industrial uses.

Disclaimer

Nylon-6 price provided by is a base price and excludes VAT/Taxes, discounts, or offers. The information herein is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of the date indicated and is provided solely for the convenience of our customers as a reference for nylon-6. disclaims any warranties or representations regarding the accuracy of results derived from this information. It is the sole responsibility of the user to assess the suitability of the product for their specific application. This document does not constitute an endorsement to use the product in violation of any applicable patent rights.

Request a Price Watch Demo

Frequently asked questions

Which cost drivers are most influential in determining Nylon 6 pricing? +

The price of Caprolactam, the main precursor for Nylon 6, largely influences its cost. Additionally, energy expenses, manufacturing efficiencies, and logistical costs contribute to overall pricing.

How do fluctuations in Caprolactam costs affect Nylon 6 pricing? +

Increases in Caprolactam prices often lead to higher production costs, prompting manufacturers to raise their prices. On the flip side, a drop in Caprolactam costs can allow for price reductions, benefiting buyers.

What industry trends should procurement professionals monitor for Nylon 6? +

Procurement teams should keep an eye on industrial demand—especially from automotive and textile sectors—as well as technological advancements in polymer processing and global trade conditions that could affect raw material availability.