Polyamide prices in both Europe and the United States exhibited modest yet divergent trends in the second half of January 2025. Overall, European markets, particularly in Germany, have seen prices positioned at the upper end of the spectrum due to persistent cost pressures, while U.S. prices have remained largely steady. In both regions, the interplay of raw material costs and downstream demand dynamics has influenced the market environment.

In Germany, Polyamide prices have remained stable but have gravitated toward the higher end, driven primarily by sustained cost pressures from key feedstocks such as Adipic Acid, Benzene, and elevated natural gas prices. Demand from the automotive sector has improved, contributing to a gradual recovery in purchasing activity following the holiday season.

However, a notable deviation has been observed in the Polyamide 66 natural grade segment, where prices declined as manufacturers actively cleared accumulated inventories through discounted offerings. Production continuity among major manufacturers has ensured that inventory levels are sufficient to meet ongoing downstream demand.

Market participants continue to exercise caution, reflecting concerns over global geopolitical tensions and potential tariff-related risks, thereby leading to a restrained approach in Polyamide procurement despite the relatively balanced market fundamentals.

In the United States, the Polyamide market has experienced a stable pricing trend, underpinned by a well-matched supply-demand dynamic despite increased feedstock costs for adipic acid and benzene. Although the production environment has faced challenges, such as the temporary supply chain disruptions caused by Winter Storm Enzo—which resulted in shutdowns at several petrochemical plants and port closures at key hubs—these disturbances were largely short-lived. As weather conditions improved and port operations gradually resumed, the market was able to re-establish a stable supply chain.

Moreover, the overall muted demand for Polyamide from downstream industries, particularly in automotive applications, has helped to offset the upward pressure from feedstock cost fluctuations. However, recent tariff-related uncertainties, including U.S. executive measures imposing a 25% tariff on Mexican and most Canadian goods, continue to inject an element of unpredictability into the market.

Looking ahead, market participants anticipate that the Polyamide landscape will remain cautiously balanced in the near term. In Europe, particularly in Germany, selective price adjustments for specific grades of Polyamide are expected to continue as manufacturers navigate a complex mix of inventory management and raw material cost challenges. In the U.S., while external factors such as tariff uncertainties and seasonal weather disruptions are likely to persist, a steady production output and improved supply chain resilience may mitigate these pressures over time.

Overall, the interplay between stable production levels, accumulated inventories, and cautious procurement strategies will define the price trajectory for Polyamide in the coming weeks.