A major Malaysian producer implemented a fourth consecutive round of price increases for November, with polypropylene increases outpacing polyethylene.
The hikes were supported by record-high propylene prices and domestic supply disruptions. PP buyers broadly accepted the increases as tight domestic availability left limited room to negotiate, while PE buyers remained more resistant.
Rising raw material costs are squeezing converter margins, raising the prospect of end-product price hikes as manufacturers look to recover higher production costs.
Converters are weighing whether they can pass on higher costs before a slowdown in restocking puts renewed pressure on margins.
Weak downstream demand continues to limit buyers' appetite for fresh purchases, with many converters focusing on immediate requirements despite expectations of further cost pressure.
