Polyester Filament Yarn (PFY) prices in early December exhibited mixed trends in Asian market as China and India, reflected varied market dynamics. In China, PFY prices followed a downward trend due to subdued demand and rising inventories, while in India, prices initially softened before stabilizing, supported by steady feedstock costs and improving export activity.

In China, PFY prices declined in early December as downstream demand weakened, and filament inventories accumulated despite stronger cost support from rising international oil prices. Following a brief recovery during the October peak season, PFY demand slowed as domestic autumn and winter orders concluded, and weaving enterprises adopted cautious procurement strategies to manage costs. Many manufacturers offered discounts to clear stock, but buyer interest remained limited.  Uncertainty around oil price trends and future trade policies also weighed on market sentiment, with some downstream businesses choosing to stock up modestly before the holidays while others avoided accumulating inventory, citing low returns on investment. Although foreign trade demand continued, it contracted compared to the same period last year, reflecting challenges in export activity and competitive pressures. There are minimal positive drivers for the PFY market, and with mounting supply pressures, the market is expected to remain stagnant in the near term.

In India, PFY prices stabilized following a brief period of softening, supported by consistent feedstock PTA costs and gradual recovery in textile and apparel exports. Apparel exports, in particular, showed resilience, outpacing textiles in growth as India leveraged government incentives and free trade agreements with countries such as South Korea, Japan, and Australia. The country also benefited from disruptions in Bangladesh, attracting orders for home textiles and Christmas-season products. However, challenges remain as export volumes have yet to return to pre-pandemic levels, with November recording a sharp month-on-month decline. Looming logistical disruptions due to an impending dockworker strike at major ports from December 17 could further complicate market conditions, potentially impacting PFY supply chains and creating near-term uncertainty.

Looking ahead, PFY price trends in both China and India are likely to hinge on evolving global and domestic factors. In China, the market's performance will depend on the extent of downstream recovery, seasonal demand, and external influences such as trade policies and oil price trends. In India, stable feedstock costs and growing export opportunities, supported by trade agreements and shifting sourcing preferences, could bolster demand for PFY. However, logistical challenges, including the potential port strike, may offset these gains. Both markets are expected to face continued volatility, with broader economic and geopolitical developments shaping their trajectories.