Thermoplastic Elastomer (tpe) Price Trend and Forecast

UNSPC code: 13101723
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Weekly Update
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Historical Data Since 2015
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Forecast for 2026

thermoplastic elastomer (tpe) Price Trends by Country

twTaiwan
cnChina
inIndia
vnVietnam

Global thermoplastic elastomer (tpe) Spot Market Prices, Trend Analysis and Forecast

Price-Watch™ provides real-time price assessments and price forecasts for Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) across top trading regions:

Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Regional Coverage Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Grade and Country Coverage Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Pricing Data Coverage Explanation
Asia Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Pricing Analysis Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Styrene Ethylene Butylene Styrene (Styrene Content: 27.5-34) FOB at Kaohsiung port, Taiwan Weekly Price Update on Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Real-Time Export Prices from Kaohsiung port, Taiwan to Global Markets
Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Styrene Ethylene Butylene Styrene (Styrene Content: 30-34) FOB at Shanghai port, China Weekly Price Update on Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Real-Time Export Prices from Shanghai port, China to Global Markets
Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Styrene Ethylene Butylene Styrene (Styrene Content: 30-34) Ex-Mumbai Domestic Prices, India Real-Time Weekly Price Update of Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Domestic Prices in Mumbai, India
Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Styrene Ethylene Butylene Styrene (Styrene Content: 30-34) CIF prices at Nhava Sheva port, India importing from China Weekly Price Update on Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Real-Time Import Prices at Nhava Sheva port, India from China
Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Styrene Ethylene Butylene Styrene (Styrene Content: 27.5-34) CIF prices at Nhava Sheva port, India importing from Taiwan Weekly Price Update on Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Real-Time Import Prices at Nhava Sheva port, India from Taiwan
Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Styrene Ethylene Butylene Styrene (Styrene Content: 30-34) CIF prices at Haiphong port, Vietnam importing from China Weekly Price Update on Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Real-Time Import Prices at Haiphong port, Vietnam from China
Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Styrene Ethylene Butylene Styrene (Styrene Content: 27.5-34) CIF prices at Haiphong port, Vietnam importing from Taiwan Weekly Price Update on Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Real-Time Import Prices at Haiphong port, Vietnam from Taiwan

 

Note: In assessments structured as CIF [Importing Port] (Exporting Country), the country mentioned in brackets indicates the primary origin of supply (exporting country), while the named port refers to the destination port in the importing country. Other Incoterms (FOB, FD, EXW, etc.) should be interpreted in accordance with standard international trade definitions.

Thermoplastic Elastomer Price Trend Q1 2026

In the first quarter of 2026, the thermoplastic elastomer price trend has been experiencing a slight increase of about 3% due to ongoing improvements in demand from the automotive, consumer goods, and industrial manufacturing industries.

The industry has been experiencing an increase in buying activities and improved economic conditions that have been gradually affecting the supply and demand equilibrium in various regions.

Moreover, the growing tension between Iran and Israel and interruptions in the Strait of Hormuz have been impacting the market sentiment through increased worries regarding the availability of raw materials and logistics costs.

The thermoplastic elastomer price trend has been gaining momentum despite steady production levels due to rising demands. There has been significant growth in demand in Taiwan and Vietnam, which have experienced continuous improvements in downstream activities, indicating a robust market sentiment.

Taiwan: TPE Export prices FOB Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Grade – Styrene Content 27.5–34

In Q1 2026, TPE prices in Taiwan have risen by 3.0%, buoyed by increasing export demand from the region of Southeast Asia as well as an uptick in performance in the footwear, adhesive, and consumer goods segments.

Market conditions have improved in relation to the prior quarter due to buyers re-entering the market to refill inventories that depleted at the end of the year. Styrene feedstock prices experienced positive movement in the quarter owing to higher benzene prices and steady crude oil prices, which added cost-push momentum behind elastomer pricing.

Moreover, suppliers are also managing their production levels, thereby reducing oversupply on the export front. It is evident in terms of the TPEs prices in Taiwan and the thermoplastic elastomer price trend in Taiwan. Likewise, in the final month of the quarter, In March 2026, TPE prices in Taiwan shot up by 14.5%.

China: thermoplastic elastomer Export prices FOB Shanghai, China; Grade – Styrene Content 30–34

According to Price-Watch™, in Q1 2026, the TPE prices in China have risen by 4.1% mainly because of improvements in demand and tightening of supply. The improvement in manufacturing activities in the automotive component industry, packaging sector, and consumer goods sector has led to a rise in the use of elastomers.

The prices of feedstock styrene have risen in the quarter owing to higher benzene and naphtha prices, while butadiene trends have also influenced production expenses. Some manufacturers have reduced their capacity utilization after the excess supply period, and this has also balanced the market.

These developments have been witnessed in the prices of TPE in China and thermoplastic elastomer price trend in China. Likewise, at the end of the quarter, In March 2026, TPE prices in China have risen significantly by 18.5%.

India: thermoplastic elastomer Domestically Traded prices Ex-Mumbai, India; Grade – Styrene Content 30–34

During Q1 2026, TPE prices in India have increased by 4.3%, supported by improved demand from key downstream sectors such as footwear, wire & cable, and adhesives. Market sentiment strengthened as manufacturers resumed procurement following weak activity in the previous quarter, while lower inventory levels triggered restocking demand.

Additionally, rising import prices from China and Taiwan increased domestic price benchmarks, further supporting the upward trend. Feedstock styrene costs also remained firm during the quarter, providing cost-side support.

This has been reflected in thermoplastic elastomer price trend in India and the prevailing thermoplastic elastomer price trend in India, indicating a recovering market scenario. Similarly, in the last month of the quarter, In March 2026, TPE prices in India have surged by 18.2%, driven by strong demand recovery and higher import parity prices.

Vietnam: thermoplastic elastomer Import prices CIF Haiphong (China), Vietnam; Grade – Styrene Content 30–34

During Q1 2026, TPE prices in Vietnam have increased by 4.0%, primarily due to improving demand from footwear manufacturing and packaging sectors, which are key consumers of elastomers in the country. Import dependency on China ensured that rising export prices from Chinese suppliers are directly reflected in Vietnam’s import market.

Additionally, stable freight movement and consistent shipment arrivals-maintained supply flow, but tighter availability in China supported price increases. Feedstock styrene trends remained firm, providing additional cost support.

This has been reflected in TPE prices in Vietnam and the broader thermoplastic elastomer price trend in Vietnam, indicating strengthening market fundamentals. Similarly, in the last month of the quarter, In March 2026, TPE prices in Vietnam have increased significantly by 18.1%, driven by strong restocking demand and higher import offers.

Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2025

The global TPE price trend for Q4 2025 has been indicating an uptrend of about 2%. This is because the demand from end-user sectors such as automobiles, consumer goods, and industrial manufacturing has been steadily increasing.

The sector has been benefiting from high purchase activities and gradual improvement in economic performance that has been supporting the absorption of excess inventory in many parts of the world.

While production activities have remained steady, the TPE price trend has been remaining stable and rising due to an increase in demand. There has been recovery in the sector’s performance in Taiwan and Vietnam due to improved market trends after earlier declines.

Taiwan: TPE Export prices FOB Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Grade – Styrene Content 27.5–34

TPE prices in Taiwan witnessed a decrease of 4.2% in Q4 2025 due to low demand from downstream sectors such as footwear, adhesives, and consumer goods, especially from countries such as Southeast Asia and China. Suppliers experienced low orders in their production due to cautious buying by consumers because of adequate stock availability.

Low prices are observed in the prices of the feedstock styrene and butadiene during the quarter while crude oil stability gave little price support to the polymer prices. At the same time, steady operating plants have resulted in high availability and hence price pressures.

These factors have been evident in TPE prices in Taiwan and the TPE price trend in Taiwan which signifies the bearish conditions prevailing in the market. In December 2025, TPE prices in Taiwan witnessed a decline of 0.8% due to sluggish export inquiries and year-end stock corrections.

China: TPE Export prices FOB Shanghai, China; Grade – Styrene Content 30–34

In Q4 2025, TPE prices in China have fallen by 2.1% on account of moderate domestic demand, although they are held back by oversupply issues. With high operating rates for Chinese manufacturers and ample availability of material, there is no scope for price gains, while exports remained lackluster amid weak trends in overseas consumption.

The price trend for the raw material styrene saw stability, while trends in butadiene are neither supportive nor detrimental to pricing. Moreover, there have been signs of a slowdown in manufacturing activity in China, with sluggishness seen in the automotive and consumer goods sectors, causing softer elastomer demand.

All the above factors have affected the prices of TPE in China and, in general, the TPE price trend in China. Likewise, in the final month of the quarter, in December 2025, TPE prices in China fell by 0.8%.

India: TPE Domestically Traded prices Ex-Mumbai, India; Grade – Styrene Content 30–34

During Q4 2025, TPE prices in India have declined significantly by 5.7%, driven by weak demand from key downstream sectors such as footwear, wire & cable, and adhesives. Domestic consumption remained subdued as manufacturers operated at lower utilization rates due to slow end-user demand and high inventory levels.

Additionally, competitive pricing from imported cargoes, particularly from China and Taiwan, exerted further downward pressure on domestic prices. Feedstock trends remained stable, offering limited cost support. This has been reflected in TPE prices in India and the prevailing TPE price trend in India, indicating bearish market sentiment.

Similarly, in the last month of the quarter, In December 2025, TPE prices in India have declined sharply by 6.1%, due to aggressive destocking and reduced year-end procurement activity.

Vietnam: TPE Import prices CIF Haiphong (China), Vietnam; Grade – Styrene Content 30–34

During Q4 2025, TPE prices in Vietnam have declined by 2.0%, primarily due to moderate downstream demand and stable import supply from China. Key end-use sectors such as footwear and packaging maintained steady but unspectacular consumption, while buyers remained cautious with procurement amid sufficient inventory availability. Import flows from China remained consistent, ensuring adequate material supply in the market.

Feedstock styrene trends remained soft, providing limited cost support to prices. This has been reflected in TPE prices in Vietnam and the broader TPE price trend in Vietnam, indicating balanced-to-weak market conditions. Similarly, in the last month of the quarter, In December 2025, TPE prices in Vietnam have declined by 0.8%, due to weak buying momentum and stable supply levels.

In Q3 2025, the global Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) price trend has been predominantly showing a downward trajectory across key markets, as demand from industries such as automotive, consumer goods, and industrial manufacturing has been remaining weaker than expected. The TPE price trend has been being driven by reduced procurement activity and a general economic slowdown, which has been leading to excess supply in several regions.

Despite stable production levels, the Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) price trend has been continuing to fall as demand has not been picking up in line with market expectations. The TPE price trend has been being particularly significant in Taiwan and Vietnam, where the decline has been being sharper, reflecting the ongoing challenges in the global manufacturing and supply chains.

Taiwan: Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Export prices FOB Kaohsiung, Taiwan, Grade – Styrene Ethylene Butylene Styrene (Styrene Content: 27.5-34).

In Taiwan, TPE export prices have decreased by 8.4% in Q3 2025. The TPE price trend in Taiwan has been being largely driven by weak demand from sectors such as automotive and consumer goods. The TPE price trend has been showing a significant decline as procurement activity has been remaining lower than expected, causing excess supply to build up in the market. Despite relatively steady production, the TPE price trend has been continuing to fall as market conditions have been remaining subdued, and demand has not been picking up.

In September 2025, prices for TPE with styrene content 27.5-34 in Taiwan have remained largely stable, increasing slightly by 0.1%. The Taiwanese market has been experiencing modest demand from automotive, consumer goods, and industrial sectors, which has been supporting steady pricing. Feedstock costs, particularly styrene and butadiene, have been remaining balanced, preventing any significant production cost fluctuations.

China: Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Export prices FOB Shanghai, China, Grade – Styrene Ethylene Butylene Styrene (Styrene Content: 30-34).

In China, TPE export prices have been seeing a more moderate decrease of 2.8% in Q3 2025. The TPE price trend in China has been being influenced by weaker demand from key industries, including automotive and electronics, which have been experiencing slower-than-expected procurement. The TPE price trend has been declining due to global economic uncertainty and reduced consumer spending, which has been leading to lower purchasing activity. Despite stable supply, the TPE price trend in China has been continuing downward as industries have not been ramping up production as expected.

The Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) price trend in China has been reflecting the broader market conditions, where sluggish demand has been preventing a price recovery, despite stable production. However, in September 2025, Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) prices in China with styrene content 30-34 have increased by 0.6%, supported by steady demand from the automotive and consumer goods sectors.

Chinese suppliers have been benefiting from moderate upstream styrene and butadiene prices, which have been keeping production costs stable. Domestic inventories have been remaining balanced, allowing exporters to maintain consistent shipments to regional markets including India and Vietnam.

India: Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Domestically Traded prices Ex-Mumbai, India, Grade – Styrene Ethylene Butylene Styrene (Styrene Content: 30-34).

According to Price-Watch AI, In India, TPE domestically traded prices have been decreasing by -5.5% in Q3 2025. The TPE price trend in India has been being driven by a slowdown in demand from local manufacturing sectors, particularly automotive and packaging, which have not been recovering as quickly as anticipated. The TPE price trend has been showing a consistent decline as industrial activity has been remaining slower than expected, reducing procurement volumes.

The TPE price trend in India has been reflecting the global market slowdown, as demand has not been picking up in line with expectations. Despite relatively stable supply, the Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) price trend in India has been continuing its downward movement, driven by the overall economic uncertainty and low procurement levels.

In September 2025, Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) prices in India with styrene content 30-34 have declined by 1.4% due to subdued domestic demand from automotive and consumer sectors, combined with inventory overhang from previous shipments. Feedstock prices for styrene and butadiene have been remaining steady, but buyers have been negotiating lower prices amid a cautious market sentiment.

Vietnam: Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Imported prices CIF Haiphong, Vietnam from China, Grade – Styrene Ethylene Butylene Styrene (Styrene Content: 30-34).

In Vietnam, TPE imported prices have been falling by -2.7% in Q3 2025. The TPE price trend in Vietnam has been reflecting global economic pressures and weak demand in key sectors such as packaging and automotive. The Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) price trend has been showing a downward shift as procurement has been remaining subdued, and industrial activity has been being slower than expected. The TPE price trend in Vietnam has also been being influenced by oversupply in the market, as supply levels have not been matching the lower demand.

Despite stable production, the Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) price trend has been continuing to decline, with prices having reflected a market under pressure from reduced procurement and cautious consumer behaviour. In September 2025, TPE prices in Vietnam have increased by 0.6%, underpinned by stable regional demand from automotive and consumer sectors. Chinese FOB prices have been remaining firm, supporting the upward movement in CIF pricing.

According to the PriceWatch, the China Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) SEBS market experienced a 10.3% decline in prices during Q2 2025. The average price for the quarter was recorded at USD 1,944 per metric ton (FOB Shanghai), marking a sharper downturn compared to the previous quarter.

This significant drop was driven by ongoing weak demand across key application sectors including automotive interiors, consumer goods, and adhesives, where purchasing remained slow amid macroeconomic uncertainty.

Buyers continued to prioritize lean inventory strategies, avoiding bulk restocking amid volatile end-use demand. At the same time, increased competition from regional suppliers in Asia, particularly with aggressive pricing from South Korea and Southeast Asia, further pressured Chinese export offers.

Domestically, production rates remained steady, but oversupply conditions persisted due to soft export flows and restrained domestic consumption. Logistics and port operations remained fluid, offering no external cost support to prop up prices.

The SEBS market in China remains under bearish pressure, and unless demand improves significantly or producers begin implementing output cuts, this downward pricing trend is expected to continue into the near term. 

According to the PriceWatch, the Indian Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) SEBS market witnessed a 5.4% decline in prices during Q2 2025. The average price for the quarter was recorded at USD 2,760 per metric ton (Ex-Mumbai). This downward correction followed a firm Q1 and was primarily driven by softer downstream demand in automotive components, footwear, and adhesive applications.

After forward buying in the previous quarter, most converters maintained a cautious approach to procurement, focusing on managing existing inventories rather than placing new bulk orders. Meanwhile, supply constraints seen in Q1 began to ease, with improved import flows from China and South Korea, contributing to a more balanced domestic supply situation.

Although raw material costs remained relatively stable, subdued market sentiment and competitive overseas offers placed pressure on local pricing. Port operations and inland logistics remained uninterrupted, ensuring steady distribution across major industrial hubs. With tepid demand and improved availability, the Indian SEBS market softened in Q2, and this neutral-to-bearish trend may persist unless there’s a notable uptick in domestic consumption or a fresh round of supply tightening in the coming months.

Q1 2025 The Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) market eased further in Q1 2025, with global TPE prices settling at USD 2,171/MT FOB Shanghai for Styrene Ethylene Butylene Styrene (SEBS), a 3% decline from Q4.

Global purchasing was cautious in the face of continued macroeconomic uncertainty and subdued downstream demand. Competitive regional Asian supplier pricing put pressure on the market, and buyers were more concerned with inventory management than restocking in force.

Indian TPE prices for Styrene Ethylene Butylene Styrene (SEBS) in Q1 2025 averaged USD 2919/MT Ex-Mumbai, up by 2% from Q4 2024. While demand eased after the holiday season, prices were underpinned by tight supply and firm raw material prices. Forward buying due to uncertainty over Chinese production supported prices. While downstream consumption was not very strong, supply tightness kept the market bullish-biased. 

Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

In Q4 2024, the global TPE (SEBS) market saw a price correction, with FOB Shanghai prices averaging USD 2,235/MT, reflecting a 4% decline.

Demand softened in Europe and North America due to economic slowdown concerns, while China saw improved output and more aggressive export offers. The easing of freight and raw material costs supported the downward trend.

In Q4 2024, TPE prices for Styrene Ethylene Butylene Styrene (SEBS) increased to USD 2976 /MT Ex-Mumbai, 3% higher than in Q3 2024. Demand before the festival and forward-looking purchases spurred the market. Chinese sellers concentrated on domestic demand, reducing export volumes. Energy and logistics charges being high also kept pressure on margins, which Indian buyers held in expectations of improved prices later. 

Q3 2024, The TPE prices continued to firm in Q3 2024, reaching USD 2,318/MT FOB Shanghai for Styrene Ethylene Butylene Styrene (SEBS), a modest 1% increase quarter-on-quarter. Global demand held steady, particularly from electronics and sportswear manufacturers.

Supply remained tight in China amid production curbs and maintenance shutdowns, keeping prices elevated. Buyers focused on short-term contracts due to freight volatility.

In Q3 2024, TPE prices for Styrene Ethylene Butylene Styrene (SEBS) edged up to USD 2905/MT Ex-Mumbai, a 1% increase from the previous quarter. Stable demand from the packaging and automotive sectors kept the market balanced, while improved supply from overseas helped limit sharp hikes. Buyers remained cautious, maintaining moderate inventory levels amid clearer lead times and improved shipment flows. 

In Q2 2024, the global TPE (SEBS) prices increased to USD 2,296/MT FOB Shanghai, up 7% from Q1. The price hike was fuelled by rising feedstock costs, stronger export demand from Southeast Asia and Europe, and tightened supply in China due to stricter environmental inspections. Buyers responded with early ordering to avoid further cost escalation. 

During Q2 2024, TPE prices for Styrene Ethylene Butylene Styrene (SEBS) rose to USD  2889/MT Ex-Mumbai, up 4% from Q1. The rise was led by increased industrial and consumer product demand and constrained Chinese production due to maintenance schedules. Higher feedstock prices and longer import lead times created urgency among Indian processors, contributing to firmer price trends. 

During Q1 2024, the worldwide SEBS-grade Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPE) market began Q1 2024 on a firm footing, with prices averaging USD 2,150/MT FOB Shanghai.

Market fundamentals were balanced, with stable demand from major industries like automotive, consumer goods, and healthcare. Chinese suppliers continued stable export flows, and buyers pursued a conservative procurement strategy under stable upstream cost conditions.

In Q1 2024, TPE prices for Styrene Ethylene Butylene Styrene (SEBS) averaged USD  2780/MT Ex-Mumbai, reflecting a 4% increase over the previous quarter. Post-year-end restocking and renewed buying from the Plastic Modification and Soft contact material Toys sectors spurred price recovery. Rising freight charges and feedstock costs in the Chinese market also drove up import prices. Buyers adjusted quickly to this trend, reinforcing an early-year price uptrend. 

Technical Specifications of Thermoplastic Elastomer (tpe) Price Trends

Product Description:

Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) based on SEBS (Styrene-Ethylene-Butylene-Styrene) is a high-performance polymer combining the elasticity of rubber with the processability of thermoplastics. SEBS-based TPE exhibits excellent flexibility, resilience, and impact resistance, along with superior weatherability, chemical resistance, and dimensional stability. Its lightweight and durable nature allows it to maintain mechanical properties over a wide temperature range. The material offers excellent processability through methods such as injection molding, extrusion, and blow molding, ensuring consistent performance and reliability.

Identifiers and Classification:

  • CAS No – 66070-58-4
  • HS Code – 40021990
  • Molecular Formula – (C₈H₈)n-(C₂H₄)x-(C₄H₈)y
  • Molecular Weight[g/mol] – 100,000 to 300,000


Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Synonyms:

  • Thermoplastic Rubber (TPR)
  • Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE)
  • Thermoplastic Vulcanizate (TPV)
  • SEBS (Styrene-Ethylene-Butylene-Styrene)


Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Grades Specific Price Assessment:

  • Styrene Ethylene Butylene Styrene (Styrene Content: 27.5-34) Price Trend
  • Styrene Ethylene Butylene Styrene (Styrene Content: 30-34) Price Trend


Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Global Trade and Shipment Terms

  • Quotation Terms (Product & Country Specific): 10-15 MT,15-20MT
  • Packaging Type (Product & Country Specific): 13 Kg Bag


Incoterms Referenced in TPE Price Reporting

Shipping Term  Location  Definition 
FOB Kaohsiung  Kaohsiung, Taiwan  TPE Export price from Taiwan 
FOB Shanghai  Shanghai, China  TPE Export price from China 
Ex-Mumbai  Mumbai, India   Domestically Traded TPE price in India 
CIF Nhava Sheva (China)  Nhava Sheva, India  TPE import price in India from China 
CIF Nhava Sheva (Taiwan)  Nhava Sheva, India  TPE import price in India from Taiwan 
CIF Haiphong (China)  Haiphong, China  TPE import price in Haiphong from China 
CIF Haiphong (Taiwan)  Haiphong, Taiwan  TPE import price in Haiphong from Taiwan 

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

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

Key Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Manufacturers and their brands

Brand Name  Manufacturer 
NA  Sinopec 
Taipol   TSRC Corporation. 
Globalprene   

LCY CHEMICAL CORP. Ltd. 

Thermoplastic Elastomer (tpe) Industrial Applications

thermoplastic elastomer market share end use

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Thermoplastic Elastomer (tpe) prices

  • 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.
  • Global Energy Crisis (2021-2023): The global energy crisis, driven by high natural gas and crude oil prices, affected the production of various chemicals, including SEBS. SEBS production relies on petrochemical feedstocks, and the energy crisis made it more expensive to produce the necessary raw materials like styrene monomer. This led to increased production costs and reduced output in many regions.
  • COVID-19 Pandemic (2020-2022): The COVID-19 pandemic caused widespread production halts as lockdowns forced manufacturing plants to close, delaying new vehicle releases and disrupting parts supply. Global supply chains, dependent on just-in-time manufacturing, faced severe disruptions, with critical component shortages like semiconductors leading to delays and cost increases. Consumer demand also plummeted due to economic uncertainty and lockdowns, further impacted by car dealership closures. A shift towards private vehicles and electric vehicles (EVs) emerged, driven by health concerns and online sales trends. Though the industry began to recover by late 2020, semiconductor shortages slowed the recovery, with Asia-Pacific rebounding faster than other regions.

Why Price Watch™?

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

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

Track Price Watch's™ thermoplastic elastomer (tpe) 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.

Thermoplastic Elastomer (tpe) Market Price Trend published by Price Watch™ reflect prevailing spot market conditions, derived from independent research, verified trade inputs, and proprietary market intelligence as of the publication date. Prices are published on the specified Incoterm and represent indicative base market levels, exclusive of applicable taxes, VAT, duties, tariffs, and other statutory charges. Actual transaction values may vary depending on volume, credit terms, contractual structure, and other negotiated conditions. Market prices are inherently subject to volatility, liquidity dynamics, regulatory changes, and evolving trade activity. The information provided is for reference and benchmarking purposes only and does not constitute an offer, recommendation, or guarantee of transactional outcomes. Users should exercise independent commercial judgment and assess their specific contractual, regulatory, tax, and application requirements before making business decisions. Price Watch™ assumes no liability for decisions taken based on this information.

The price of SEBS is primarily influenced by the cost of raw materials such as styrene and butadiene, both derived from petrochemicals. Fluctuations in crude oil prices, supply chain disruptions, and regional availability of these raw materials can impact SEBS prices. Additionally, demand from key sectors such as automotive, medical, and construction industries, as well as global economic conditions, also play a role in determining the market price of SEBS.

SEBS pricing is closely tied to the cost of its raw materials, particularly styrene and butadiene. Any increase in crude oil prices or supply shortages of these monomers can lead to higher production costs, driving up SEBS prices. Conversely, when raw material prices stabilize or decrease, it can result in more favourable pricing for SEBS. Procurement heads should monitor raw material markets to anticipate changes in SEBS pricing.

The automotive industry is a major consumer of SEBS, particularly for seals, gaskets, and interior components. High demand from this sector, especially during periods of increased vehicle production, can lead to tighter supply and higher SEBS prices. Conversely, a slowdown in automotive production may ease demand, stabilizing or reducing SEBS prices.

TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) is a class of polymers that combine the properties of rubber and plastic, offering flexibility, durability, and ease of processing. It is widely used in automotive parts, footwear, medical devices, and consumer goods. Its price impacts production costs across multiple industries. Price-Watch™ tracks TPE prices to help businesses stay informed about market movements and cost trends.

TPE prices fluctuate based on region, grade, and market conditions, influenced by feedstock costs (such as styrene, butadiene, and polypropylene), freight rates, and demand from key industries like automotive and consumer goods. Prices are typically quoted per metric ton and vary with supply-demand balance. Price-Watch™ provides up-to-date price assessments across key global markets.

TPE prices are influenced by feedstock costs (styrene, butadiene, and propylene derivatives), demand from automotive, construction, and consumer goods sectors, and production levels. Global supply-demand dynamics, feedstock price fluctuations, and seasonal demand play key roles. Recent trends show price variations depending on raw material costs and downstream demand recovery.

Major consumers of TPE include the automotive industry, footwear manufacturers, medical device producers, and consumer goods companies. Automotive applications account for a significant share, followed by demand from footwear and soft-touch consumer products. Price-Watch™ tracks consumption trends across these sectors.

TPE is produced in petrochemical plants through polymerization and compounding processes using materials like styrene block copolymers (SBC), thermoplastic polyolefins (TPO), and thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU). It is then processed into various grades for different applications.

Major exporters of TPE include countries such as China, South Korea, Taiwan, Germany, and the United States. Export volumes vary depending on production capacity, feedstock availability, domestic demand, and pricing competitiveness in the international market. Price-Watch™ monitors global trade flows and supply availability.

Overall supply is generally adequate; however, temporary tightness may arise due to feedstock constraints, plant shutdowns, logistics disruptions, or sudden demand fluctuations in key end-use industries. Price-Watch™ closely tracks supply-demand balances to highlight potential shortages or oversupply situations.

TPE includes various types such as Styrene Block Copolymers (SBS, SEBS), Thermoplastic Polyolefins (TPO), Thermoplastic Polyurethanes (TPU), and Thermoplastic Vulcanizates (TPV). Prices vary based on polymer composition, performance properties, processing method, and specific end-use requirements. Price-Watch™ provides grade-wise price assessments for better market clarity.

When demand rises sharply, often driven by increased activity in automotive, footwear, or consumer goods sectors, prices tend to increase, lead times may extend, and buyers may experience limited spot availability in the market. Price-Watch™ captures these shifts in real time.

TPE production depends on multiple feedstocks such as styrene, butadiene, and propylene derivatives. Any increase in these raw material prices directly raises production costs, which manufacturers may pass on to buyers. Price-Watch™ analyses feedstock-TPE price correlations to explain cost movements.

Regional prices vary due to local availability, production capacity, energy costs, freight rates, import duties, and domestic demand levels. Price-Watch™ tracks regional differentials to highlight pricing gaps across markets.

The TPE price outlook depends on trends in key feedstocks such as styrene, butadiene, and propylene, demand from automotive and consumer sectors, capacity expansions, and overall global economic conditions. Price-Watch™ publishes regular forecasts projecting price direction over the next 12 months.

Yes. Reliable forecasts help buyers plan procurement, manage inventory, negotiate contracts, and control production costs. Price-Watch™ forecasts support smarter purchasing and budgeting decisions.

Events such as trade policy changes, shipping disruptions, energy price volatility, or geopolitical tensions can affect the availability of feedstocks like styrene and butadiene, alter production rates, and disrupt global trade flows, leading to fluctuations in TPE prices. Price-Watch™ provides timely updates on such market-moving events.

Price-Watch™ gathers data from producers, converters, traders, and buyers to publish transparent TPE price assessments, market reports, and forecasts, helping stakeholders stay ahead of market trends.