China
India
Saudi Arabia
South KoreaIn Q1 2025, the South Korean PMMA (Polymethyl Methacrylate) market with 99.9% purity recorded a price decrease of 9.9%, with average FOB Busan prices falling to USD 2135 per metric ton. The downturn was primarily driven by persistently weak demand across both domestic and export markets, as buyers remained cautious due to ongoing economic uncertainty and volatile global trade conditions.
Automotive sector demand, particularly for Taillight applications, saw a seasonal dip, while downstream processors reduced procurement volumes amid sufficient inventories and subdued order pipelines. Additionally, the Lunar New Year holidays from late January to early February contributed to slower market activity and delayed purchasing decisions.
On the supply side, PMMA producers maintained moderate operating rates; however, improved MMA availability and softening feedstock costs especially for acetone and MTBE lessened cost pressures, enabling some producers to reduce offer levels to maintain competitiveness. Export sentiment to Southeast Asia and India remained weak due to unfavourable exchange rates and slow downstream conversion.
Despite the drop, the market did not experience sharp oversupply, as producers were cautious with allocations. Looking ahead, unless demand rebounds significantly, South Korea’s PMMA prices are expected to remain under pressure, though any further decline may be gradual given current production discipline.Â
According to the PriceWatch, the South Korean PMMA (Polymethyl Methacrylate) market with 99.9% purity witnessed a marginal price increase of 1% during Q2 2025. The average FOB Busan price was recorded at USD 2153 per metric ton. This stable pricing trend was driven by moderate demand from the automotive segment, particularly for Taillight applications, and steady offtake across key Asian markets. While global economic sentiment remained cautious, regional buyers began replenishing inventories that had declined in the previous quarter.
On the supply side, South Korean PMMA producers maintained controlled operating rates, effectively preventing market oversupply and aligning output with demand levels. Feedstock MMA prices fluctuated mildly, with upstream acetone and MTBE markets remaining relatively steady. Export activity showed slight improvement, supported by better vessel scheduling and lower freight costs.
However, a stronger Korean won against the U.S. dollar posed minor headwinds for export competitiveness, especially in price-sensitive Southeast Asian destinations. Overall, the quarter reflected a balanced market environment, characterized by stable supply, conservative procurement, and manageable cost structures. This trend is expected to continue in the near term, assuming no major shifts in feedstock dynamics or geopolitical developments.Â
In Q1 2024, the South Korean PMMA (Polymethyl Methacrylate) market with 99.9% purity witnessed a price increase of 7%, reaching an average of USD 1966 per metric ton on an FOB Busan basis. The uptrend was primarily driven by higher MMA feedstock prices, which rose due to tighter global supply and surging crude oil values. Production disruptions in key exporting regions, such as planned maintenance shutdowns and reduced operating rates in Japan and Taiwan, further strained availability across Asia.
On the demand front, downstream sectors including automotive components particularly Taillight manufacturing and signage registered a modest rebound in procurement activities after subdued demand in late 2023. Traders and distributors responded to low inventory levels by restocking cautiously, despite ongoing macroeconomic uncertainties and a volatile freight environment.
Nevertheless, buying sentiment remained cautious as end-users faced resistance at elevated prices and anticipated potential easing in raw material costs in the upcoming quarter. With limited supply from key producers and steady offtake from the automotive sector, PMMA prices in South Korea are expected to stay firm in the short term unless significant demand-side weakening or feedstock cost corrections materialize.Â
In Q2 2024, the South Korean PMMA (Polymethyl Methacrylate) market with 99.9% purity recorded a significant price increase of 13.5%, with the average price rising to USD 2232 per metric ton on an FOB Busan basis. This sharp upward movement was primarily driven by escalating MMA feedstock costs, which surged due to persistent supply constraints across Asia, including planned turnarounds and lowered operating rates in Japan, Taiwan, and parts of Southeast Asia.
Upstream pressures from elevated acetone and MTBE prices further pushed PMMA production costs higher. On the demand side, consistent offtake from the automotive sector especially for Taillight applications provided solid support to the market. Export inquiries from Southeast Asian countries improved moderately, and domestic distributors increased procurement to maintain sufficient inventories amid expectations of continued feedstock cost inflation.
Although some market participants expressed concern over rising input costs and global economic uncertainty, limited supply availability and resilient downstream demand kept PMMA prices buoyant. Given the ongoing tightness in MMA supply and firm feedstock pricing, PMMA prices in the South Korean market are expected to remain elevated in the near term.Â
In Q3 2024, the South Korean PMMA (Polymethyl Methacrylate) market with 99.9% purity registered an 8.29% increase in prices, averaging USD 2417 per metric ton on an FOB Busan basis. This steady rise was largely attributed to persistent feedstock cost pressure, particularly from methyl methacrylate (MMA), where limited supply and higher upstream input prices such as acetone and MTBE continued to tighten producer margins.
Regional PMMA supply remained constrained, as several production units in Japan and Southeast Asia operated at reduced rates or faced shutdowns, further limiting availability in the Asian market. Demand from the automotive sector, especially for Taillight applications, remained firm, helping to sustain pricing momentum.
Export interest from Southeast Asia and the Middle East also supported sentiment, while local distributors actively replenished inventories amid fears of continued supply-side constraints. Although economic uncertainty and fluctuating crude oil prices introduced some caution among buyers, the overall market remained bullish due to tight supply and firm raw material trends. With upstream MMA availability still limited and operating costs elevated, South Korea’s PMMA prices are expected to maintain their upward trajectory in the near term.Â
In Q4 2024, the South Korean PMMA (Polymethyl Methacrylate) market with 99.9% purity saw a marginal decline of 2%, with average prices settling at USD 2369 per metric ton on an FOB Busan basis. The slight dip was primarily due to easing upstream MMA prices and a gradual recovery in supply as some regional plants resumed normal operations.
Additionally, seasonal factors played a role in softening demand, particularly from the automotive sector, where procurement slowed ahead of the year-end. While feedstock costs for acetone and MTBE remained relatively stable, they no longer exerted the upward pressure seen in previous quarters. Export interest from Southeast Asia moderated amid cautious buying behaviour, and several buyers adopted a hand-to-mouth purchasing strategy in anticipation of further price corrections.
Domestic buying sentiment also weakened slightly due to inventory adjustments and lower spot trading activity. Despite these pressures, the overall market remained relatively supported by controlled operating rates and disciplined supply management by producers. Given the current fundamentals, PMMA prices in the South Korean market are likely to remain rangebound in the near term, with further declines limited unless there is a significant drop in feedstock or demand conditions.Â
In Q1 2025, PMMA (Polymethyl Methacrylate) prices in the Indian market for imports from South Korea on a CIF basis declined by 9.8%, with the average quarterly price assessed at USD 2229 per metric ton. This downward correction was largely driven by subdued procurement sentiment among Indian buyers, who maintained lean inventories amid weak downstream offtake and anticipation of further price relief.
The Ex-Mumbai market mirrored this trend, with distributors lowering offers in response to reduced inquiries from the automotive lighting and signage segments. Although upstream MMA prices saw some volatility due to rising feedstock costs and logistical uncertainties globally, the impact was offset by increased availability from Northeast Asian suppliers and weak regional demand.
Additionally, the Lunar New Year holiday period in February led to slower shipment activity and delayed order finalizations, further dampening market momentum. The appreciating Indian rupee against the U.S. dollar during the quarter also slightly improved import affordability, adding pressure on spot import prices.
While producers attempted to maintain pricing discipline, competitive offers and cautious restocking behaviour led to a soft overall pricing environment. As the quarter closed, sentiment remained bearish, with buyers adopting a wait-and-see approach ahead of the seasonal demand uptick expected in Q2.Â
According to the PriceWatch, the Indian PMMA (Polymethyl Methacrylate) market for CIF imports from South Korea and domestic Ex-Mumbai cargoes experienced a marginal price decrease of 0.5% during Q2 2025. The average price for the quarter was recorded at USD 2222 per metric ton. This stable yet slightly downward trend reflects cautious sentiment among buyers amid consistent supply from South Korea and adequate inventory positions in India.
Although feedstock MMA costs remained firm globally due to upstream volatility, Indian converters adopted a conservative procurement approach considering slower-than-expected demand recovery from the automotive and signage sectors. Seasonal factors, such as the monsoon’s onset in key Indian regions, also dampened construction and industrial activity, further limiting PMMA offtake. Additionally, steady freight rates on the South Korea–India route and stable INR/USD exchange levels helped maintain price stability despite external economic pressures.
With most buyers purchasing on a need-only basis and no major supply disruptions anticipated, the Indian PMMA market is witnessing a plateau in pricing. This trend is expected to continue in the near term, as subdued demand and balanced supply conditions shape the outlook for upcoming quarters.Â
The PMMA market showed a steady rise at the beginning of 2024. CIF NHAVA SHEVA (South Korea) recorded a 6% price increase, with volumes at 155,442 INR, while EX Mumbai saw a 4% rise, reaching 182,056 INR. This growth was largely driven by strong industrial demand and stabilizing supply chains.Â
An upward trend continued, with a sharper price surge. CIF NHAVA SHEVA jumped by 13%, reaching 175,128 INR, while EX Mumbai recorded a significant 19% increase, hitting 216,596INR. This quarter saw higher feedstock costs and strong demand from automotive and construction sectors, reinforcing market strength.Â
Prices peaked in Q3 as CIF NHAVA SHEVA climbed 16%, reaching 202,278INR, and EX Mumbai rose by 9%, totalling 236,292INR. Supply constraints, rising raw material costs, and strong overseas demand contributed to this upward movement.Â
In Q4 2024, PMMA (Polymethyl Methacrylate) prices in the Indian market, for imports arriving from South Korea on a CIF basis, declined by 2.7%, with the quarterly average assessed at USD 2472 per metric ton. The price softening was primarily attributed to a seasonal slowdown in downstream demand, particularly from the automotive sector where OEMs scaled back procurement amid year-end inventory corrections and cautious budgeting.
Additionally, reduced spot activity and comfortable stock levels among Indian converters led to muted buying momentum, compelling traders to adjust offers downward. On the supply side, improved availability from South Korean producers, coupled with smoother logistics and declining freight rates on the Asia–India trade route, helped stabilize import volumes and ease cost pressures.
The Ex-Mumbai market also witnessed similar bearish sentiment, with local distributors trimming price quotes in line with softened international parity levels. Weakness in MMA feedstock pricing during the latter half of the quarter further contributed to the decline in PMMA cost structures.
As the market enters 2025, participants remain cautiously optimistic, though most anticipate a gradual demand recovery post the financial year-end and pre-festive restocking cycle. Overall, the Q4 price dip reflects a typical seasonal adjustment in a broadly stable market.Â
Molecular Weight[g/mol]
CAS No
HS Code
Molecular Formula
Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) is a transparent, durable thermoplastic widely used as a glass substitute in various industries, including automotive, medical, and construction. Made from Methyl Methacrylate (MMA) feedstock, PMMA offers excellent optical clarity, weather resistance, and UV stability. It is known for its lightweight, shatter-resistant properties, making it ideal for lenses, displays, and protective covers.
Packaging Type
Polymethyl Methacrylate 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 |
| Melt Flow Index (MFI) | ~6.0 g/10 min |
| Density | ~1.19 g/cm³ |
| Tensile Strength | ≥65 MPa |
| Elongation at Break | ~4% |
| Light Transmittance | ≥92% |
| Refractive Index | ~1.49 |
| Heat Deflection Temp. (1.8 MPa) | ~102°C |
| Color Availability | Natural (Clear)Â
 |
Â
Polymethyl Methacrylate Applications
In general, PMMA is used in automotive taillights prototype, instrument panel covers, outer pillars and decorative parts, interior lights prototypes, rearview mirror housings prototype, etc., and is mainly used in fields that require transparency, translucency, and high gloss prototype parts.Â
These events underscore the PMMA market’s vulnerability to global disruptions and highlight the need for continuous monitoring of supply-demand dynamics.
PriceWatch is your trusted resource for tracking global polymethyl methacrylate price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the polymethyl methacrylate 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 polymethyl methacrylate prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with PriceWatch’s reliable, accurate, and timely polymethyl methacrylate market data.
Track PriceWatch's polymethyl methacrylate 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 PMMA pricing assessments, helping our clients stay ahead of market trends and make informed business decisions.Â
Molecular Weight[g/mol]
CAS No
HS Code
Molecular Formula
Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) is a transparent, durable thermoplastic widely used as a glass substitute in various industries, including automotive, medical, and construction. Made from Methyl Methacrylate (MMA) feedstock, PMMA offers excellent optical clarity, weather resistance, and UV stability. It is known for its lightweight, shatter-resistant properties, making it ideal for lenses, displays, and protective covers.
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 |
| Melt Flow Index (MFI) | ~6.0 g/10 min |
| Density | ~1.19 g/cm³ |
| Tensile Strength | ≥65 MPa |
| Elongation at Break | ~4% |
| Light Transmittance | ≥92% |
| Refractive Index | ~1.49 |
| Heat Deflection Temp. (1.8 MPa) | ~102°C |
| Color Availability | Natural (Clear)Â
 |
Â
Applications
In general, PMMA is used in automotive taillights prototype, instrument panel covers, outer pillars and decorative parts, interior lights prototypes, rearview mirror housings prototype, etc., and is mainly used in fields that require transparency, translucency, and high gloss prototype parts.Â
The price of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) is influenced by several factors, including:
Raw Material Costs: The price of methyl methacrylate (MMA), the primary material for PMMA, as well as other feedstocks like solvents and catalysts, can significantly affect PMMA prices.
Energy Costs: PMMA production is energy-intensive, so fluctuations in energy prices (e.g., natural gas or electricity) can impact production costs.
Labor Costs: Rising labor expenses in manufacturing regions can drive up the cost of producing PMMA.
Supply Chain Disruptions: Issues such as transportation delays, geopolitical events, or trade policies can cause shortages or price hikes in raw materials, influencing PMMA prices.
Demand from End-Use Industries: The automotive, construction, electronics, and medical industries are key consumers of PMMA. Economic conditions in these sectors can lead to price changes.
Technological Advancements: Innovations in PMMA manufacturing can improve efficiency and reduce costs, while specialized products may lead to higher prices.
Market Competition: The number of suppliers and the balance between supply and demand can drive price fluctuations, with monopolies or oversupply influencing prices.
Environmental & Regulatory Factors: Environmental regulations or restrictions on chemicals may increase production costs and affect supply, leading to price hikes.
Global Economic Factors: Economic conditions such as inflation, consumer spending, and currency exchange rates influence global demand and PMMA prices.
Recycling & Sustainability Initiatives: The demand for recycled PMMA and sustainable materials can affect market dynamics, influencing both supply and price.
These factors collectively contribute to fluctuations in PMMA prices.
The price of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) is heavily influenced by the cost of its primary feedstock, methyl methacrylate (MMA), which is the raw material used in its production. Like how the price of crude oil impacts the cost of gasoline and other petroleum products, fluctuations in the price of MMA directly affect the price of PMMA. When the cost of MMA rises, it typically leads to higher prices for PMMA as well.
The relationship between commodity prices and inflation for PMMA is that as the prices of raw materials and feedstocks (such as methyl methacrylate) increase, the production costs for PMMA rise as well. These higher production costs can lead to an increase in the price of PMMA in the market. Additionally, inflationary pressures in the broader economy, such as higher energy or labor costs, can further drive up PMMA prices. Thus, inflation can lead to higher prices for PMMA as manufacturers face increased expenses.