In Q1 2024, the Unsaturated Polyester Resin (UPR) market in China and Taiwan experienced a price decline due to oversupply amidst weak demand, particularly from the downstream construction sector and broader Asian markets. Additionally, reduced production costs provided limited support for UPR prices, as the cost of key feedstocks like Propylene Glycol and Maleic anhydride dropped. This combination of excess supply and lower feedstock prices exerted downward pressure on the UPR market throughout the quarter.
By Q2 2024, prices continued to drop in China as lower raw material costs reduced production expenses, and excess supply coupled with diminished demand from key industries like construction contributed to the trend. However, in the Taiwan market prices were stable during this period due to a balanced gap between the demand and supply.
In Q3 2024, UPR prices began to rise due to tight market conditions, freight issues, and strong demand. The increased prices were reflective of these factors, with UPR Prices around 1,990 USD/MT FOB Shanghai and 1,803 USD/MT FOB Kaohsiung. This upward trend in pricing was driven by persistent supply chain disruptions and robust consumption across key markets.
Looking ahead to Q4 2024, UPR prices in the APAC region are expected to rise moderately. This may be influenced by raw material costs, fluctuating demand from the downstream construction and automotive sectors, and supply chain conditions. The automotive sector is likely to grow due to higher vehicle production and demand for electric vehicles, while the construction sector remains strong with ongoing projects, though rising material costs and supply chain disruptions may impact budgets. Both sectors will continue to focus on innovation and sustainability.