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Polystyrene (ps) Price Trend and Forecast

UNSPC code: 13102026
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⟳ Weekly Update
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Historical Data Since 2015
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Forecast for 2026

polystyrene (ps) Price Trends by Country

usUnited States
mxMexico
brBrazil
beBelgium
deGermany
nlNetherlands
saSaudi Arabia
cnChina
inIndia
krSouth Korea

Global polystyrene (ps) Spot Market Prices, Trend Analysis and Forecast

Price-Watch’s most active coverage of Polystyrene (PS) price assessment:

  • General Purpose Polystyrene FDA (MFI: 4- 8) FOB Houston, USA
  • General Purpose Polystyrene FDA (MFI: 4- 8) CIF Manzanillo (USA), Mexico
  • High Impact Polystyrene (MFI: 3.5-8) FOB Houston, USA
  • High Impact Polystyrene (MFI: 3.5-8) CIF Manzanillo (USA), Mexico
  • General Purpose Polystyrene FDA (MFI: 4- 8) CIF Santos (USA), Brazil
  • High Impact Polystyrene (MFI: 3.5-8) CIF Santos (USA), Brazil
  • High Impact Polystyrene (MFI: 9-12) FD Antwerp, Belgium
  • General Purpose Polystyrene FDA (MFI: 1.5-3.5) FD Antwerp, Belgium
  • General Purpose Polystyrene FDA (MFI: 1.5-3.5) FD Hamburg, Germany
  • High Impact Polystyrene (MFI: 9-12) FD Hamburg, Germany
  • General Purpose Polystyrene FDA (MFI: 1.5-3.5) FD Amsterdam, Netherlands
  • High Impact Polystyrene (MFI: 9-12) FD Amsterdam, Netherlands
  • General Purpose Polystyrene FDA (MFI: 9) FOB Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
  • High Impact Polystyrene (MFI: 4) FOB Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
  • High Impact Polystyrene (MFI: 5.5-9) FOB Busan, South Korea
  • General Purpose Polystyrene FDA (MFI: 1.2- 3) FOB Busan, South Korea
  • High Impact Polystyrene (MFI: 8) Ex-Mumbai, India
  • General Purpose Polystyrene FDA (MFI: 8) Ex-Mumbai, India
  • General Purpose Polystyrene FDA (MFI: 1.2- 3) CIF Nhava Sheva (South Korea), India
  • High Impact Polystyrene (MFI: 5.5-9) CIF Nhava Sheva (South Korea), India
  • General Purpose Polystyrene FDA (MFI: 1.2- 3) CIF Shanghai (South Korea), China
  • General Purpose Polystyrene FDA (MFI: 3-8) Ex-Qingado, China
  • High Impact Polystyrene (MFI: 5.5-9) CIF Shanghai (South Korea), China

Polystyrene Price Trend Q3 2025

In Q3 2025, the polystyrene price trend has been consistently moving downward across most major regions, with prices having been continuously declining due to weaker demand in downstream industries such as packaging and consumer goods. The global polystyrene price trend has been being influenced by an ongoing economic slowdown, with many regions having been experiencing a reduction in procurement activities.

Supply levels have been remaining stable, but demand has not been rising in line with expectations, causing a steady drop in prices. The polystyrene price trend has also been being shaped by external factors like fluctuating freight costs and economic instability, further dampening market confidence. Overall, the downward trend has been reflecting a broader market hesitation, where supply has been outpacing demand, creating pricing pressures across regions.

USA

Polystyrene Export prices FOB Houston, USA, Grade, General Purpose Polystyrene (GPPS).

According to the PriceWatch, in the USA, Polystyrene export prices have been showing a downward trend in Q3 2025, falling within the range of 1470–1490 USD. The polystyrene price trend has been being influenced by reduced demand from industries such as packaging, resulting in less robust export activities. The polystyrene price trend in the USA has largely been reflecting a soft global demand and a cautious market outlook.

Despite stable supply, weaker procurement from international markets has been keeping downward pressure on prices. As demand has continued to be sluggish, the polystyrene price trend has remained largely negative, reflecting ongoing economic uncertainty in both domestic and international markets. In September 2025, polystyrene prices in the US have decreased by 2.3%. Prices in the U.S. GPPS market have been declining as demand from packaging, consumer appliances, and construction-related applications has been weakening throughout September.

The fall has been primarily driven by soft feedstock Styrene Monomer prices, which have been lowering production costs and reducing cost-push support for producers. Distributors and converters have been continuing to liquidate existing inventories, leading to minimal spot buying activity. Export demand from Latin America has also been easing as buyers have been preferring to defer fresh procurement due to a bearish sentiment in the region.

Mexico

Polystyrene Imported prices CIF Manzanillo, Mexico from USA, Grade, General Purpose Polystyrene (GPPS).

In Mexico, Polystyrene imported prices have been showing a slight decrease in Q3 2025, following the same trend as in the USA. The polystyrene price trend has largely been driven by weaker demand from the packaging and consumer goods sectors. The polystyrene price trend in Mexico has been consistent with the broader global trend, as the region has been facing a combination of subdued domestic demand and slower procurement from downstream industries.

Supply has been stable, but the lack of stronger purchasing activity has been keeping prices under pressure. The polystyrene price trend has been showing a mild decline, as demand has continued to be low in Mexico despite relatively stable supply levels. In September 2025, polystyrene prices in Mexico have decreased by 2.2%.

Mexican import prices have been softening during September as lower U.S. FOB export offers have been translating into weaker CIF Manzanillo levels. Importers have been remaining cautious in placing new orders as downstream demand in the packaging and consumer goods sectors has been limited, with converters having been drawing down existing inventories instead of replenishing stocks.

Brazil

Polystyrene Export prices FOB Santos, Brazil, Grade General Purpose Polystyrene (GPPS).

In Brazil, Polystyrene export prices have been declining by 2.1% in Q3 2025, reflecting a similar trend observed in other regions. The Polystyrene price trend in Brazil has primarily been driven by weaker demand in the packaging and consumer goods sectors. The economic slowdown, combined with limited export opportunities, has been keeping prices in a downward trajectory.

While supply levels have remained steady, the absence of strong purchasing activity from international buyers has been leading to pressure on prices. The polystyrene price trend in Brazil has been mirroring the global market slowdown, resulting in a slight price decrease throughout the quarter.

In September 2025, Polystyrene prices in Brazil have decreased by 2.3%. The CIF Santos GPPS market has been following the downward trajectory of U.S. export prices as Brazilian converters have been receiving cheaper offers from U.S. suppliers. Weaker feedstock costs and subdued export activity from the U.S. have been leading to competitive pricing, while Brazilian demand from packaging and consumer product sectors has remained lacklustre.

Belgium

Polystyrene Domestically Traded prices FD Antwerp, Belgium, Grade General Purpose Polystyrene (GPPS).

In Belgium, Polystyrene domestically traded prices have been seeing a sharp decline of 7.61% in Q3 2025. The PS price trend has been being driven by weak demand from industries such as packaging and automotive, alongside economic uncertainty in the Eurozone. The Polystyrene price trend in Belgium has been reflecting a broader European slowdown, where consumer confidence has been low, and purchasing activity has been limited.

Despite stable supply levels, the lack of strong demand has been causing prices to fall significantly. The polystyrene price trend in Belgium has been one of the most pronounced declines in the region, indicative of the ongoing market challenges facing the European economy. In September 2025, Polystyrene prices in Belgium have decreased by 3.4%.

FD Antwerp GPPS prices have been dropping sharply as European demand has been softening across packaging and consumer goods sectors. Feedstock Styrene Monomer costs have been declining, removing cost-based resistance for sellers.

Germany

PS Domestically Traded prices FD Hamburg, Germany, Grade, General Purpose Polystyrene (GPPS).

In Germany, Polystyrene domestically traded prices have also been experiencing a noticeable drop of 7.13% in Q3 2025. The polystyrene price trend in Germany has largely been shaped by the economic difficulties faced by key industries such as automotive and packaging. The economic slowdown, coupled with reduced industrial activity, has been keeping downward pressure on prices.

The polystyrene price trend in Germany has been mirroring the broader European trend, with prices having been continuing to decline throughout the quarter. Although supply has remained steady, the lack of significant demand from downstream industries has been driving the market into a sustained period of price reductions.

In September 2025, Polystyrene prices in Germany have decreased by 3.2%. The German GPPS market has been experiencing a decline due to sluggish demand and high inventory levels across packaging and insulation sectors. Feedstock Styrene Monomer prices have remained weak, reducing producers’ cost base and leading to softer offers.

Netherlands

Polystyrene Domestically Traded prices FD Amsterdam, Netherlands, Grade General Purpose Polystyrene (GPPS).

In the Netherlands, Polystyrene domestically traded prices have been seeing a decline of 7.5% in Q3 2025. The polystyrene price trend has been heavily impacted by a lack of strong demand from the packaging and consumer goods sectors. Economic instability across Europe has been dampening consumer confidence, which in turn has been affecting procurement activity in the Netherlands.

The polystyrene price trend in the region has largely been reflecting the broader European economic challenges, where low industrial activity has been keeping prices on a downward path. Despite stable supply levels, the absence of strong demand has been ensuring that the polystyrene price trend has remained negative, with prices having been continuing to decrease throughout the quarter.

In September 2025, Polystyrene prices in the Netherlands have decreased by 3.3%. The GPPS market in Amsterdam has been experiencing a continued downturn as demand from packaging, food containers, and insulation applications has been weakening significantly. Feedstock Styrene Monomer prices have been dropping across Europe, leading to lower production costs and enabling producers to offer competitive rates.

Saudi Arabia

Polystyrene Domestically Traded prices FD Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Grade, General Purpose Polystyrene (GPPS).

According to the PriceWatch, in Saudi Arabia, Polystyrene domestically traded prices have been showing a mild decline of 2.6% in Q3 2025. The Polystyrene price trend has largely been shaped by weaker demand from key sectors like packaging, as global economic conditions have been affecting regional purchasing activities. Despite this, the supply of Polystyrene has been remaining stable, preventing a more significant price decrease.

The polystyrene price trend in Saudi Arabia has been reflecting a regional market where demand has not been picking up as expected, but the impact on prices has not been as severe as in Europe or Asia. As a result, prices have been remaining on a moderate downward path through the quarter.

In September 2025, Polystyrene prices in Saudi Arabia have decreased by 0.7%. In Saudi Arabia, GPPS prices have been registering a mild decline as domestic and regional demand has been softening during September. Feedstock Styrene Monomer costs have been easing in the Middle East, reflecting lower crude oil and naphtha values, which have been reducing cost support for resin producers.

South Korea

Polystyrene Export prices FOB Busan, South Korea, Grade General Purpose Polystyrene (GPPS).

In South Korea, Polystyrene export prices have been falling by 3.7% in Q3 2025. The PS price trend in South Korea has been driven by weak demand from packaging and electronics industries, both of which have been experiencing a slowdown. The polystyrene price trend has been being influenced by low procurement activity, as downstream industries have not been ramping up production to the expected levels.

Although supply has remained adequate, the absence of strong demand from key sectors has been resulting in a moderate price decline. The polystyrene price trend in South Korea has been reflecting broader regional challenges, with economic uncertainty having been keeping export prices under pressure.

In September 2025, Polystyrene prices in South Korea have decreased by 1.6%. The GPPS market in South Korea has been witnessing continued weakness in September, influenced by sluggish downstream demand and falling feedstock costs. The packaging and consumer goods sectors have been operating cautiously, focusing on inventory optimization rather than new purchases.

India

Polystyrene Domestically Traded prices Ex-Mumbai, India, Grade, General Purpose Polystyrene (GPPS)

According to the PriceWatch, in India, Polystyrene domestically traded prices have been dropping by 6.2% in Q3 2025. The polystyrene price trend in India has primarily been driven by a slowdown in demand from sectors like packaging, coupled with economic challenges that have been limiting consumer spending and industrial activity.

The polystyrene price trend has been reflecting the broader market difficulties in India, where reduced purchasing power and weak consumer confidence have been negatively impacting the demand for Polystyrene. Despite stable supply, the lack of strong procurement activity from downstream industries has been keeping prices on a steady decline throughout the quarter.

In September 2025, Polystyrene prices in India have decreased by 1.0%. GPPS prices in India have been falling slightly amid sluggish demand and competitive import arrivals from South Korea and the Middle East. Local converters in packaging and household sectors have been showing resistance to higher price offers, prompting domestic producers to provide discounts to maintain sales momentum.

China

Polystyrene Export prices Ex-Qingdao, China, Grade, General Purpose Polystyrene (GPPS).

According to the PriceWatch, in China, Polystyrene export prices have been seeing a decline of 3.9% in Q3 2025. The polystyrene price trend in China has largely been shaped by weak demand, particularly from the packaging and electronics sectors. The polystyrene price trend has been being influenced by lower procurement activity and oversupply in the market, which has been pressuring prices downward.

While supply has been stable, demand from downstream industries has remained subdued, contributing to a sustained decline in prices. The polystyrene price trend in China has been reflecting a global slowdown, as economic uncertainty and low industrial activity have continued to dominate the market.

In September 2025, Polystyrene prices in China have decreased by 1.2%. Ex-Qingdao GPPS prices have been weakening amid sluggish domestic consumption and competitive offers from both local and overseas producers. Feedstock Styrene Monomer prices have been continuing their downward movement, reducing cost support for resin producers.

Polystyrene (PS) Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2025

According to the PriceWatch, the USA Polystyrene (GPPS) market experienced a decline of 8.5% in prices during Q2 2025. The average price for the quarter was recorded at USD 1522 per metric ton (FOB Houston). This downward price trend in the U.S. GPPS market was primarily driven by sluggish demand from key downstream sectors such as appliances, electronics, and packaging, which remained cautious amid economic uncertainty.

Additionally, high inventory carryovers from Q1, coupled with fluctuating Styrene Monomer feedstock prices, contributed to limited procurement activity. The market was further affected by conservative buying strategies adopted by converters, alongside inflationary pressures and tight liquidity, which continued to suppress spot buying.

Despite stable domestic production, excess availability and delayed restocking cycles placed further pressure on prices. The U.S. GPPS market is experiencing this price correction, and it is expected to continue in the near term, as demand recovery remains slow and inventory levels stay elevated.

According to the PriceWatch, the India Polystyrene (GPPS) market experienced a 2.9% decline in prices during Q2 2025. The average price for the quarter was recorded at USD 1342 per metric ton. This downward movement in the Indian GPPS market was primarily driven by a dip in regional buying momentum and softening international benchmarks, especially from key exporting countries such as South Korea and China.

Demand from core sectors like packaging, electrical appliances, and consumer goods remained steady but lacked the momentum needed to support price growth. Additionally, subdued global economic sentiment and weak downstream confidence led to cautious procurement behaviour among domestic buyers.

On the supply side, domestic production continued without significant disruptions, contributing to a balanced-to-long supply scenario. Feedstock Styrene Monomer prices also remained volatile, offering little cost support to push GPPS prices higher. The Indian GPPS market is currently undergoing a mild correction, and this trend is expected to continue in the near term unless downstream demand shows stronger recovery and global styrene prices stabilize.

In Q1 2025, the global Polystyrene market experienced a bearish trend due to high inventory levels, fluctuating Styrene feedstock costs, and subdued demand across key sectors such as automotive and electronics. In Asia, prices dropped sharply due to the availability of products being more than the demand. Europe followed a similar path, impacted by muted buying interest and cautious converter activity.

In North America, the market softened due to reduced demand and economic uncertainty, despite stable production. USA FOB Houston prices for Polystyrene (GPPS) settled at USD 1661/MT, reflecting the market’s bearish tone. Across all regions, macroeconomic headwinds, inflationary pressure, and conservative inventory management contributed to weak sentiment, limiting purchasing activity and delaying restocking cycles.

In Q1 2025, Polystyrene (GPPS) prices in India averaged USD 1381/MT, with the market remaining flat compared to Q4 2024. The stability was due to balanced supply-demand dynamics and minimal movement in styrene feedstock prices. Demand from core sectors like packaging and electrical appliances continued at a steady pace, but buyers refrained from aggressive restocking amid global economic uncertainties.

Domestic production stayed consistent, and no major disruptions were reported. As a result, GPPS pricing remained steady, with participants adopting a cautious approach heading into the next quarter.

Polystyrene (PS) Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

In Q4 2024, the global Polystyrene market saw a bearish trend driven by weak demand, excess supply, and falling Styrene feedstock costs. In Asia, GPPS prices fell modestly to USD 1316/MT FOB – Busan, South Korea. Europe saw a minor price dip due to the lower feedstock Styrene cost, which reflected a bearish trend on product price. EU supply chains were moderate, due to financial constraints, year-end tax pressures, and destocking of GPPS and HIPS. North America and MEA saw similar trends, while South America remained stable.

During Q4 2024, Polystyrene (GPPS) prices declined to USD 1431/MT, down 4% from Q3 2024. The softening trend was attributed to reduced buying interest amid year-end inventory adjustments and weaker demand from non-essential product manufacturers. Domestic supply remained stable, but subdued export opportunities and lower input cost pressure added to the price decline.

Buyers delayed purchases on expectations of further corrections, resulting in slower trade momentum. Overall, Q4 was marked by cautious sentiment and lean procurement, keeping GPPS prices under mild downward pressure.

In Q3 2024, Polystyrene prices showed mixed trends across regions. In Asia, prices dropped sharply due to the availability of products being more than the demand and lower Styrene feedstock costs, especially in the packaging and construction sectors. In the USA, GPPS prices fell to USD 1,765/MT by quarter-end.

The North American PS market also saw price declines, driven by softened demand and improved supply despite earlier cost concerns. The European market remained relatively stable with a slight decrease, reflecting weak demand and lower feedstock prices.

In the Middle East and Africa, prices remained mostly unchanged due to balanced supply and demand. Globally, buyers were cautious, holding off purchases in anticipation of better pricing amid changing market dynamics.

In Q3 2024, Polystyrene (GPPS) prices in the Indian market touched USD 1500/MT, marking a 2% increase from Q2 2024. The rise was driven by steady demand from the packaging and appliance sectors, especially ahead of festive manufacturing cycles. Although styrene feedstock prices remained relatively stable, localized production slowdowns and delayed imports supported price firmness.

Buyers exercised caution, opting for short-term procurement. Still, festive season stockings helped maintain an overall bullish tone. Despite tight margins, consistent downstream demand kept GPPS prices elevated through most of the quarter.

In Q2 2024, polystyrene prices continued their upward trajectory due to sustained demand from the packaging and construction sectors. A combined 7.4% increase in container port volumes and a 10.4% rise in containership supply contributed to surging freight rates, exacerbating the bullish trend.

Congestion at major Asian ports, equipment shortages, and vessel rerouting around southern Africa worsened the supply-demand imbalance, significantly impacting the Asian market. North America and Europe experienced notable price fluctuations, with increases of 5.8% and 12.8%, respectively, over Q1 and Q2.

Prices of Polystyrene (GPPS) rose sharply in Q2 2024 to USD 1481/MT, reflecting a 6% increase from Q1 2024. The surge was driven by increased raw material costs and robust restocking activity. Demand from disposable product manufacturers and the appliances sector remained healthy, supporting upward pricing.

Limited availability of imported GPPS, coupled with high freight costs, further tightened the supply. Domestic manufacturers benefited from firm offtake and stable production runs, while buyers stayed active, anticipating further cost hikes. Overall, improved market confidence and stronger downstream consumption fuelled the quarterly growth.

In Q1 2024, the global Polystyrene (PS) market saw a bullish trend, driven by rising Styrene feedstock prices and strong demand from key sectors like packaging and construction. The resurgence of the construction industry further fuelled PS demand, while the Lunar New Year boosted demand for packaging materials, especially in food, beverages, and consumer goods.

This festive season led to a spike in production and distribution, increasing polystyrene usage. Supply chain disruptions from factory closures and rising freight rates, along with a 2% increase in global capacity utilization compared to 2023, added pressure to the market and pushed prices upward.

In Q1 2024, Polystyrene (GPPS) prices in India averaged USD 1395/MT, showing a 2% increase from the previous quarter. The price uptick was supported by steady demand from sectors like packaging, electronics, and consumer goods. Domestic producers saw improved off-take, while input costs, especially styrene monomer, remained moderately firm. Market sentiment was positive due to stable availability and post-holiday restocking. Demand from injection molding applications also contributed to the upward pricing movement.

Technical Specifications of Polystyrene (ps) Price Trends

Product Description

Polystyrene (PS) is a versatile thermoplastic polymer produced from the monomer styrene. It is known for its excellent clarity, rigidity, and ease of processing. Polystyrene offers good dimensional stability, electrical insulation, and moisture resistance, making it suitable for a wide range of industrial and consumer applications. Its lightweight nature and ability to be moulded into various shapes make it ideal for packaging, disposable products, and insulation materials. Polystyrene is available in multiple forms, including General Purpose Polystyrene (GPPS) and High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS), catering to diverse performance requirements across industries.

Identifiers and Classification:

  • CAS No – 9003-53-6
  • HS Code – 390319
  • Molecular Formula – (C₈H₈)ₙ
  • Molecular Weight[g/mol] – 200,000 to 300,000


Polystyrene (PS) Synonyms:

  • PS
  • Polystyrene Resin
  • Polystyrene Latex


Polystyrene (PS) Grades Specific Price Assessment:

  • General Purpose Polystyrene FDA (MFI: 4- 8) Price Trend
  • High Impact Polystyrene (MFI: 3.5-8) Price Trend
  • High Impact Polystyrene (MFI: 9-12) Price Trend
  • General Purpose Polystyrene FDA (MFI: 1.5-3.5) Price Trend
  • General Purpose Polystyrene FDA (MFI: 9) Price Trend
  • High Impact Polystyrene (MFI: 4) Price Trend
  • High Impact Polystyrene (MFI: 5.5-9) Price Trend
  • General Purpose Polystyrene FDA (MFI: 1.2- 3) Price Trend
  • High Impact Polystyrene (MFI: 8) Price Trend
  • General Purpose Polystyrene FDA (MFI: 8) Price Trend
  • General Purpose Polystyrene FDA (MFI: 3-8) Price Trend


Polystyrene (PS) Global Trade and Shipment Terms

  • Quotation Terms (Product & Country Specific): 25-28 MT
  • Packaging Type (Product & Country Specific): 25 Kg Bag


Incoterms Referenced in (PS) Price Reporting

Shipping Term  Location  Definition 
FOB Houston   Houston, USA  PS Export price from USA 
CIF Manzanillo (USA)  Manzanillo, Mexico  PS import price in Mexico from USA 
CIF Santos (USA)  Santos, Brazil  PS import price in Brazil from USA 
FD Antwerp  Antwerp, Belgium  Domestically Traded PS price in Belgium 
FD Hamburg   Hamburg, Germany  Domestically Traded PS price in Germany 
FD Amsterdam   Amsterdam, Netherlands  Domestically Traded PS price in Netherlands 
FOB Jeddah   Jeddah, Saudi Arabia  Export Traded PS price in Saudi Arabia 
FOB Busan  Busan, South Korea  Export Traded PS Depot price in South Korea 
Ex-Mumbai  Mumbai, India  Domestically Traded PS price in India 
CIF Nhava Sheva (South Korea)  Nhava Sheva, India  PS import price in Nava Sheva from South Korea 
CIF Shanghai (South Korea)  Shanghai, China  PS import price in Shanghai from South Korea 
Ex-Qingdao  Qingdao, China  Domestically Traded PS price in China 
CIF Shanghai (South Korea)  Shanghai, China  PS import price in Shanghai from South Korea 

*Quotation Terms refers to the quantity range specified for the PS being quoted or offered in a commercial transaction.

**Packaging Type refers to standard packaging size commonly used for PS packing, ease of handling, transportation, and storage in industrial and commercial applications.

Key Polystyrene (PS) Manufacturers and their brands

Brand Name  Manufacturer 
Styron  Americas Styrenics 
Styrolution® PS  Ineos Styrolution 
NA  Resmart 
NA  Total Energies 
NA  Formosa Chemicals Industries  
NA  Shanghai Secco Petrochemical  
STYRON™  INEOS 
STYRON  Trinseo  
PS®, Styrolux®  BASF  
SC203EL/SH300  Supreme 
NA  Kumho 
 

 

NA 

 LG Chem 
NA  Sabic 
SNA  Saudi Polymers Company 
NA  Jiangsu Sabron Petrochemical 

Polystyrene (ps) Industrial Applications

polystyrene market share end use

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Polystyrene (ps) prices

  • Russia-Ukraine Conflict (2022-Present): The conflict disrupted energy supplies, especially natural gas and oil, which are crucial for the petrochemical industry. Europe, a major consumer of Russian energy, faced significant supply issues. The conflict impacted the availability and cost of energy and raw materials like styrene, which is derived from petrochemical processes. This led to increased production costs and supply disruptions in European polystyrene markets.
  • Global Logistics and Shipping Crisis (2021-Present): The pandemic-related surge in e-commerce and disruptions in global shipping routes, combined with port closures and container shortages, led to a logistics crisis. The transportation of raw materials and finished polystyrene products became challenging. This caused delays and increased costs for manufacturers and end-users, further straining production.
  • COVID-19 Pandemic (2020-2022): The pandemic caused widespread disruptions to global supply chains. Manufacturing plants were shut down, labour shortages occurred, and transportation logistics were severely impacted. The polystyrene industry experienced production halts due to factory closures and reduced demand from key sectors like automotive and construction. However, demand for packaging, especially for food and medical supplies, increased, causing volatility in supply and demand.
  • Winter Storm Uri (February 2021, U.S.): This severe winter storm affected large parts of the U.S., particularly Texas, which is a major hub for petrochemical production. The storm led to widespread power outages, causing petrochemical plants and refineries to shut down. This disrupted the production of key feedstocks for polystyrene, such as styrene monomer, leading to shortages and price hikes in the polystyrene market.

Why PriceWatch?

PriceWatch is your trusted resource for tracking global polystyrene (ps) price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the polystyrene (ps) 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 polystyrene (ps) prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with PriceWatch’s reliable, accurate, and timely polystyrene (ps) market data.

Track PriceWatch's polystyrene (ps) 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.

Data Collection and Sources​

  • Real-Time Market Data: PriceWatch 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 Polystyrene production hubs. This ground-level intelligence is crucial for understanding localized market dynamics.
  • Supply Chain Monitoring: We track the entire Polystyrene supply chain, from raw material availability (e.g., Styrene) to production and distribution channels. This includes monitoring feedstock prices, production capacities, and transportation logistics.

Event Tracking and Impact Analysis​

  • Geopolitical Tensions: PriceWatch continuously monitors global geopolitical developments, such as conflicts or trade disputes, which can significantly impact Polystyrene 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 Polystyrene 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: PriceWatch evaluates macroeconomic trends, including global economic growth, inflation rates, and sector-specific demand (e.g., automotive, packaging), to predict shifts in Polystyrene demand and corresponding price movements.

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

  • Current Production Monitoring: We maintain a comprehensive database of global Polystyrene 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 Polystyrene 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: PriceWatch provides in-depth analysis of demand trends across key sectors, including packaging, automotive, and construction. 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 Polystyrene pricing. This includes understanding the impact of shifts in manufacturing bases, trade policies, and environmental regulations.

Pricing Model Development

  • Dynamic Pricing Models: PriceWatch utilizes advanced econometric models to forecast Polystyrene 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: PriceWatch 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 PriceWatch delivers the most accurate, timely, and actionable Polystyrene pricing assessments, helping our clients stay ahead of market trends and make informed business decisions.

Polystyrene (ps) Market Price Trend provided by PriceWatch 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 polystyrene (ps). PriceWatch 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.

Polystyrene prices are influenced by a complex interplay of factors, including:

Production cost: Production costs directly influence commodity prices. When production expenses rise, such as through higher raw material or labor costs, commodity prices typically increase. Conversely, lower production cost leads to reduced prices of particular commodities.

Supply and Demand: The fundamental driver of commodity prices is the balance between supply and demand. When demand exceeds supply, prices tend to rise, and vice versa.

Economic Growth: Global economic growth, particularly in emerging markets, can increase demand for commodities, driving prices higher.

Geopolitical Events: Political instability, conflicts, and trade tensions can disrupt supply chains, affecting commodity prices.

Natural Disasters: Weather events such as droughts, floods, and hurricanes can impact the production and availability of certain commodities.

Speculation: Financial speculators can influence commodity prices through their trading activities.

Government Policies: Government policies, such as tariffs, subsidies, and regulations, can impact the production, consumption, and trade of commodities.

Many commodities are derived from feedstocks, which are raw materials used in their production. The price of feedstocks can significantly influence the price of the final commodity. For example, the price of crude oil affects the price of gasoline and other petroleum products. When feedstock prices rise, it typically leads to higher commodity prices as well.

Commodity prices can have a significant impact on inflation. When commodity prices rise, it can increase the cost of production for businesses, which may pass these costs on to consumers in the form of higher prices. This can lead to inflation, a sustained increase in the general price level of goods and services in an economy.

Regional price differences for Polystyrene can be substantial, influenced by local production capacities, feedstock availability, and market demand. For instance, regions with strong refining infrastructure, like the U.S. and parts of Asia, may experience lower prices compared to others with limited production capabilities. Understanding these regional dynamics is essential for procurement heads, as they can optimize sourcing strategies by exploring cost-effective suppliers in favourable markets while balancing quality and delivery times.

Access Real-Time Polystyrene (ps) Price Trends
Access Real-Time Polystyrene (ps) Price Trends