India
Indonesia
Mexico
South Korea
ChinaIn Q1 2025, Polycarbonate prices in South Korea saw another slight dip, settling at $1727/MT, reflecting a 5.63% decrease from Q4 2024. This price movement was largely due to moderate demand from end-use industries, combined with improved inventory management by manufacturers. While global supply chain constraints persisted, better production planning and steady shipments helped keep the market balanced. Despite the slight dip, Polycarbonate demand remained consistent, particularly in the electronics and automotive sectors, setting a stable outlook for the market moving forward.
According to PriceWatch, In the second quarter of 2025, prices for General Purpose Polycarbonate (PC) on an FOB Busan basis averaged $1578 per metric ton, reflecting a sharp 8.64% decline compared to the previous quarter. The downtrend was largely driven by weak demand from downstream sectors such as electronics and automotive, both of which showed noticeable slowdowns across South Korea’s key export destinations.
In May, South Korea’s total exports declined by 1.3% year-on-year, with petrochemical shipments falling significantly, putting additional pressure on polycarbonate sentiment. Automotive exports to the U.S. were notably impacted by the reintroduction of trade tariffs, reducing procurement of engineering plastics like PC used in headlamps, dashboards, and structural parts.
On the raw material side, bisphenol-A (BPA) prices dropped during the quarter, driven by lower crude oil values and subdued phenol/acetone dynamics, reducing input cost pressure. Producers in Korea continued to operate at steady rates, resulting in ample availability. However, overseas buyers maintained a cautious stance, limiting firm spot transactions and reinforcing a bearish tone in the market.
In Q1 2024, the global Polycarbonate (PC) market showed a mixed trend, particularly in South Korea, where prices were reported at $1830/MT, reflecting a decrease of around 3.9 % from the previous quarter. This dip was primarily due to abundant supply and a slowdown in demand from the electronics and automotive sectors in the region.
However, despite the decline, demand from other key sectors like construction and packaging remained stable, helping to avoid further price drops. Globally, rising raw material costs, coupled with increasing freight rates, added upward pressure to
In Q2 2024, the Polycarbonate (General Purpose) market in South Korea showed a rebound, with prices reported at $1958/MT FOB Busan, marking an 5.18% increase from Q1. This positive trend was largely influenced by strong demand from the automotive and electrical components industries, which saw a rise in Polycarbonate use due to its lightweight and durable properties.
Additionally, technological advancements in Polycarbonate production processes further supported this growth, helping manufacturers meet the higher demand efficiently. Other factors, such as supply chain optimization and increased consumer electronics production, also contributed to the upward price trend.
In Q3 2024, the Polycarbonate market in South Korea experienced a strong price surge, reaching $1990/MT, marking an 4.38% increase from Q2 2024. This rise was primarily driven by robust demand from key sectors such as automotive, electronics, and construction, where Polycarbonate is widely used for its durability and heat resistance.
Additionally, ongoing supply chain disruptions, including port congestion, vessel rerouting, and equipment shortages, contributed to higher freight costs, adding pressure to prices. The global market also saw an increase in industrial activity, further supporting the bullish trend.
In Q4 2024, Polycarbonate prices in South Korea stabilized, dropping to $1830/MT, reflecting an 8.04 % decrease from Q3 2024. This decline was influenced by abundant supply, as manufacturers ramped up production to meet previous demand surges.
Additionally, a temporary slowdown in procurement activity from key industries led to a more balanced market scenario. Improved logistics and a gradual easing of freight challenges also helped stabilize prices, ensuring a steady supply flow into the region.
In the first quarter of 2025, domestic prices for General Purpose Polycarbonate averaged 1,939 per metric ton on an Ex-Mumbai basis, falling by 5.90% from the previous quarter. The bearish trend continued as downstream sectors such as consumer appliances, automotive, and lighting applications showed only modest recovery following the New Year period. Indian buyers remained cautious, focusing on low-volume purchases and lean inventory strategies.
Meanwhile, consistent inflows of Korean-origin cargo ensured ample supply, limiting any scope for upward pricing. Although some market participants noted a brief restocking phase in late February, it lacked the strength needed to lift overall market sentiment. Lower feedstock BPA prices globally further reduced cost support, while the strengthening of the Indian rupee against the Korean won helped ease import burdens slightly.
Traders in Mumbai and surrounding regions indicated that while end-user inquiries remained steady, actual conversions were low due to price sensitivity and competitive material availability.
According to PriceWatch, in the second quarter of 2025, General Purpose Polycarbonate prices in India declined further to $1772 per metric ton on an Ex-Mumbai basis, reflecting a substantial 8.63% drop from Q1 levels. The price erosion was primarily driven by a persistent lack of demand from key downstream sectors such as electronics, automotive, and small appliance manufacturing.
Processors remained highly cost-conscious amid an uncertain macroeconomic backdrop and limited export orders for finished goods. Korean-origin imports continued to arrive regularly, leading to a well-supplied market throughout April and May. Meanwhile, the drop in global crude oil values and downstream BPA prices reduced overall cost pressure on producers, enabling competitive offers from exporters.
Indian buyers responded by maintaining only essential inventory levels, avoiding bulk purchases. As a result, sellers in western India adjusted prices downward to stay aligned with market expectations. Despite the steady supply scenario, sentiment remained weak as participants anticipated continued softness heading into the monsoon-impacted Q3.
In the first quarter of 2024, prices for General Purpose Polycarbonate in the Indian domestic market averaged $2016 per metric ton on an Ex-Mumbai basis, marking a 1.48% decline from the previous quarter. The downtrend was attributed to soft demand across key segments such as automotive trims, safety equipment, and household appliances. Indian processors adopted a cautious approach to procurement, influenced by economic uncertainty and elevated opening inventories.
Although Korean-origin imports continued to flow without disruption, spot transactions remained limited as buyers preferred to consume existing stock. The market was largely balanced on the supply side, with no significant shipping or production issues reported. However, subdued offtake and lean purchasing behaviour kept pricing pressure intact throughout the quarter.
Traders noted that even as freight rates softened slightly, there was minimal impact on landed cost dynamics due to the strength of the Korean won. As a result, sentiment in the Indian PC market remained neutral to mildly bearish during Q1 2024.
In the second quarter of 2024, prices for General Purpose Polycarbonate in India rose to $2140 per metric ton on an Ex-Mumbai basis, reflecting a 6.14% increase over the previous quarter. The uptick was supported by improving downstream demand, particularly from manufacturers of UV-resistant eyewear, impact-resistant containers, and transparent appliance housings.
Domestic processors across northern and western India resumed restocking activities following the fiscal year-end lull, while Korean-origin imports remained stable. A modest recovery in Bisphenol-A (BPA) feedstock prices also encouraged Korean suppliers to firm up offers.
The overall market tone shifted to mildly bullish in May, driven by consistent offtake and seasonally stronger consumption trends. Although freight rates and currency movements were relatively stable, firming input costs and healthy pipeline movement contributed to higher landed costs.
With balanced availability and stable buyer activity, the market entered Q3 with moderate bullish momentum, although some traders remained cautious given the global uncertainty in demand from electronics and automotive segments.
In the third quarter of 2024, Polycarbonate prices in India surged to $2299 per metric ton on an Ex-Mumbai basis, up 7.46% from the previous quarter. The price rally was fuelled by strong seasonal demand from the automotive sector, where PC is widely used in lighting systems, interior trims, and instrument panels. Increased orders from consumer electronics manufacturers, along with firm offtake for protective eyewear and display panels, added further support.
On the supply side, several Korean producers underwent scheduled maintenance shutdowns, which disrupted the export flow of key PC grades into India. Combined with shipping delays and tight container availability in July, these supply constraints amplified price momentum through August and September. Indian buyers rushed to secure material amid fears of extended lead times, further driving up local prices.
Despite stable crude prices, persistent feedstock tightness and bullish sentiment among traders kept the market well-supported through the quarter. Inventory replenishment was a priority for many processors heading into the festive manufacturing cycle.
In the fourth quarter of 2024, prices for General Purpose Polycarbonate in the Indian domestic market dropped to $2061 per metric ton on an Ex-Mumbai basis, representing a sharp 10.38% decrease from the previous quarter. The correction came on the back of weakening demand across lifestyle, electronics, and sports goods sectors during the year-end slowdown. Downstream manufacturers reduced order volumes in anticipation of lower Q1 activity, while many traders engaged in aggressive destocking to clear inventory.
At the same time, Korean-origin shipments continued to arrive on schedule, resulting in a comfortable supply scenario and further softening offers. With feedstock values showing no significant upward pressure and freight costs stabilizing, there was little justification for price support.
Sentiment turned increasingly buyer-driven, and procurement strategies shifted toward short-term requirements rather than long-term stocking. As a result, transaction volumes thinned across major trading hubs, and sellers were compelled to revise quotes downward to stimulate interest before the start of the next calendar year.
Molecular Weight[g/mol]
CAS No
HS Code
Molecular Formula
Polycarbonate (PC) is a high-performance thermoplastic polymer produced from the polymerization of bisphenol A (BPA) and phosgene. Known for its exceptional toughness, transparency, and impact resistance, Polycarbonate exhibits high thermal stability and resistance to chemicals while offering superior optical clarity. With excellent dimensional stability and flame-retardant properties. Overall, Polycarbonate is a preferred engineering plastic that effectively combines strength, versatility, and durability for a wide range of industries.
Packaging Type
Polycarbonate 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.
Technical specification for Polycarbonate (injection moulding)Â
| Property | Specification (injection moulding) |
| Specific Gravity | 1.2 |
| Melt Flow Index | 6 g/10min |
| Tensile strength | 66 MPa |
| Tensile Modulus | 2300 MPa |
| Heat Deflection Temperature (Unannealed)Â | 126 CÂ |
| Flexural Modulus | 2300 MPa |
Polycarbonate Applications
Polycarbonate is a highly versatile material used across various industries due to its exceptional toughness, transparency, and heat resistance. In the automotive industry, it is commonly applied in headlamp lenses, interior components, and lightweight panels, benefiting from its impact strength and durability.
The electronics sector relies on Polycarbonate for housings, connectors, and display screens, where its electrical insulation and flame-retardant properties are critical. In construction, it is widely used for roofing, skylights, and glazing due to its UV resistance and lightweight nature. Medical devices also use Polycarbonate for surgical instruments, housings, and equipment that require sterilization and durability.
In consumer goods, it’s found in everything from eyewear lenses and safety goggles to reusable water bottles and phone cases. Its strength, clarity, and resistance to high temperatures make Polycarbonate an indispensable material for numerous applications, providing both performance and reliability across industries.
PriceWatch is your trusted resource for tracking global polycarbonate price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the polycarbonate 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 polycarbonate prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with PriceWatch’s reliable, accurate, and timely polycarbonate market data.
Track PriceWatch's polycarbonate 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 Polycarbonate 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
Polycarbonate (PC) is a high-performance thermoplastic polymer produced from the polymerization of bisphenol A (BPA) and phosgene. Known for its exceptional toughness, transparency, and impact resistance, Polycarbonate exhibits high thermal stability and resistance to chemicals while offering superior optical clarity. With excellent dimensional stability and flame-retardant properties. Overall, Polycarbonate is a preferred engineering plastic that effectively combines strength, versatility, and durability for a wide range of 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.
Technical specification for Polycarbonate (injection moulding)Â
| Property | Specification (injection moulding) |
| Specific Gravity | 1.2 |
| Melt Flow Index | 6 g/10min |
| Tensile strength | 66 MPa |
| Tensile Modulus | 2300 MPa |
| Heat Deflection Temperature (Unannealed)Â | 126 CÂ |
| Flexural Modulus | 2300 MPa |
Applications
Polycarbonate is a highly versatile material used across various industries due to its exceptional toughness, transparency, and heat resistance. In the automotive industry, it is commonly applied in headlamp lenses, interior components, and lightweight panels, benefiting from its impact strength and durability.
The electronics sector relies on Polycarbonate for housings, connectors, and display screens, where its electrical insulation and flame-retardant properties are critical. In construction, it is widely used for roofing, skylights, and glazing due to its UV resistance and lightweight nature. Medical devices also use Polycarbonate for surgical instruments, housings, and equipment that require sterilization and durability.
In consumer goods, it’s found in everything from eyewear lenses and safety goggles to reusable water bottles and phone cases. Its strength, clarity, and resistance to high temperatures make Polycarbonate an indispensable material for numerous applications, providing both performance and reliability across industries.
The pricing of Polycarbonate is influenced by several key factors, including raw material costs, production methods, and global demand and supply dynamics. Fluctuations in the prices of bisphenol A (BPA) and phosgene, the primary feedstocks for Polycarbonate production, can significantly impact overall pricing. Additionally, supply chain disruptions, geopolitical tensions, and natural disasters may lead to price volatility. Finally, market demand from various sectors, including automotive, electronics, and construction, also plays a crucial role in determining pricing trends.
Raw material availability, particularly of Bisphenol A, plays a crucial role in determining Polycarbonate pricing. When there are shortages due to production disruptions, regulatory issues, or geopolitical tensions, Polycarbonate prices tend to increase. Conversely, an oversupply of raw materials or improved production efficiencies can lead to price decreases.
Environmental regulations significantly impact Polycarbonate pricing by influencing production costs and compliance requirements. Stricter regulations related to emissions and waste management can lead to higher operational costs for manufacturers, which may be passed on to buyers in the form of increased prices. Additionally, a shift towards more sustainable production methods may require investment in new technologies, further affecting pricing.