For the Quarter Ending December 2024
North America
The North American fluoropolymer (PTFE) market experienced fluctuations driven by supply-demand dynamics and industry-specific trends. During Q4, the PTFE market witnessed a decline of 1% in comparison to the previous quarter. In October, an incline in the demand from the automotive and aerospace sectors, particularly for high-performance materials with superior thermal and chemical resistance, underpinned market activity. The automotive sector, bolstered by hybrid and electric vehicle production, showed consistent growth, while the aerospace sector experienced intermittent recovery amid production challenges and muted activity.
Supply chain disruptions, including production setbacks from hurricanes and elevated freight costs, tightened availability at times. However, strategic inventory management, streamlined logistics, and stable import flows ensured a balanced supply and minimized market disruptions. Temporary demand declines in sectors like semiconductors led to occasional bearish sentiments, prompting market participants to scale back activities and align supply with demand. Overall, the market showcased a decline quarter on quarter. Challenges such as port congestion and extended delivery times were mitigated by proactive measures like stockpiling.
APAC
The fluoropolymer (PTFE) market in the APAC region exhibited fluctuating dynamics shaped by supply chain pressures, varying sectoral performance, and broader economic conditions. Supply of the commodity remained balanced to tight, supported by consistent production rates and effective inventory management by manufacturers. However, logistical challenges persisted, driven by port congestion and typhoon-related disruptions in Taiwan and China, which extended lead times and disrupted intra-Asian trade flows. Economic factors such as declining consumer sentiment and consecutive interest rate cuts highlighted weakened market conditions, further softening demand. The automotive sector faced a downturn, while the semiconductor sector provided some support with its steady performance. Manufacturers responded proactively by adjusting operations to stabilize the supply-demand equilibrium amid subdued activity. Despite bearish sentiments, improvements in delivery times and smoother port operations helped mitigate supply chain disruptions. The market demonstrated resilience through its adaptability to mixed demand patterns, inflationary pressures, and fluctuating import costs, maintaining a balance between supply and demand even under challenging circumstances.
Europe
The fluoropolymer (PTFE) market in the European region demonstrated a mix of stability and fluctuation during the given period, driven by demand shifts, supply chain challenges, and economic factors. Demand from the automotive and aerospace industries remained a key driver, with the aerospace sector showing positive momentum despite moderate performance in the automotive sector. The market benefitted from strong domestic production capabilities and steady import availability, which helped maintain a balanced supply-demand dynamic. Geopolitical tensions and inflationary pressures increased operational costs and constrained raw material availability, contributing to tighter supply chain conditions. Port congestion, particularly in Hamburg, caused delays but saw gradual improvements by the end of the year, enhancing supply chain efficiency. Suppliers strategically managed inventory levels and adjusted operations to align with market conditions, preventing disruptions and maintaining equilibrium. Despite external challenges, effective supply chain management, improved delivery performance, and resilient supplier actions ensured market stability. These dynamics highlight the adaptability and efficiency of the German PTFE market in navigating fluctuating demand and logistical constraints while maintaining balanced market conditions.
For the Quarter Ending September 2024
North America
In the third quarter of 2024, Fluoropolymers (PTFE) prices in the North American region experienced a significant decline, with the USA showing the most pronounced changes. This downward trend was driven by several factors, including moderated demand from key sectors such as automotive and construction, as well as supply chain disruptions and rising production costs, all of which exerted pressure on market prices. In particular, the USA reported a notable 3% decrease from the previous quarter, reflecting the challenging market environment. Seasonality also played a role, resulting in a 2% price variance between the first and second halves of the quarter.
Overall, the price change compared to the same quarter last year remained stagnant at 0%, indicating a consistent downward trajectory in recent market performance. This stagnation highlights the ongoing struggles within the market and the impact of external factors on pricing.
By the end of the quarter, the price for Fluoropolymers (PTFE) Fine Powder CFR New York in the USA was recorded at USD 12,970/MT. This figure underscores the prevailing negative sentiment in the pricing environment. The overall landscape has been characterized by a steady decline, reflecting the challenging dynamics and subdued market conditions affecting the Fluoropolymers sector in the region.
APAC
In Q3 2024, the Fluoropolymers (PTFE) market in the APAC region witnessed a significant decline in prices, with China experiencing the most notable changes. Various factors contributed to this downward trend. Firstly, subdued demand from key sectors like automotive and construction played a crucial role in driving prices lower. The oversupply in the market, coupled with weak demand, exerted downward pressure on PTFE prices. Additionally, global economic uncertainties and reduced export demand further dampened market sentiment.China saw a substantial decrease in PTFE prices. The -12% change from the same quarter last year underscored the ongoing price erosion. Moreover, the -5% change from the previous quarter in 2024 highlighted the persistent downward trajectory. The -3% difference between the first and second halves of the quarter emphasized the continued price decline throughout the period. As the quarter concluded, the price stood at USD 6030/MT of PTFE Fine Cut-EXW Dongying in China, reflecting the prevailing negative pricing environment in the region. The overall trend showcased a consistent decrease in prices, indicating a challenging market landscape with limited positive indicators.
Europe
In Q3 2024, the Fluoropolymers (PTFE) market in Europe experienced a significant decline in prices, particularly in Germany, where the most pronounced changes were observed. This downturn was driven by several factors, including weakened demand from critical sectors like automotive and aerospace, along with reduced industrial activity and cautious spending behaviors. Additionally, an oversupply stemming from increased production capacity contributed to the downward pressure on prices, while diminishing export demand exacerbated the surplus and further depressed PTFE prices.The anticipated lower bids for inventory accumulation, coupled with expectations of rising freight charges, adversely affected pricing dynamics. Despite stable pricing trends in the first half of the quarter, a notable 2% decrease was recorded in the latter half, reflecting the overall negative sentiment within the market. When comparing this quarter to the same period last year, where prices remained steady, and the previous quarter in 2024, which saw a 3% decrease, the current quarter-ending price for PTFE Powder form CFR Hamburg in Germany was USD 13,170/MT. This figure underscores the prevailing downward trend in pricing in the region.
For the Quarter Ending June 2024
North America
In Q2 2024, the North American Fluoropolymers (PTFE) market experienced a notable downward price trajectory, driven by a confluence of factors. This quarter has been characterized by persistently weak demand from several sectors, including the goods-producing industry, which saw reductions in output, new orders, and employment levels. High inventory levels, combined with trader's ample stockpiles, further exerted downward pressure on prices. Additionally, subdued international demand and stable prices from major exporting regions accentuated this trend.
Focusing on the USA, the PTFE market witnessed the most significant price changes. Overall trends indicate a seasonally adjusted decrease, reflecting a consistent bearish sentiment. The decrease can be attributed to high interest rates and inflationary pressures dampening consumer confidence and purchasing power, significantly impacting demand in the downstream construction and automotive sectors. Inventory management strategies saw merchants maintaining current stock levels, avoiding new orders amid expectations of stable or declining prices.
Comparing the same quarter last year, PTFE prices in Q2 2024 dropped by 13.1%, highlighting a substantial year-over-year decline. From the previous quarter's end in 2024, prices recorded a decrease of 2%, with a similar decline observed between the first and second halves of Q2 2024. These consistent reductions underscore a negative pricing environment. The quarter concluded with a price of USD 13,420/MT for PTFE Fine Powder CFR New York, reflecting a stable yet persistently decreasing market sentiment throughout Q2 2024.
APAC
In Q2 2024, the pricing of Fluoropolymers (PTFE) in the APAC region has been characterized by a consistent decline. First, subdued demand from downstream industries has exerted significant pressure on prices. The slowdown in the electric vehicle (EV) market, particularly due to reduced consumer spending and heightened competition, has resulted in diminished orders for PTFE, which is extensively used in EV manufacturing. Additionally, geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties, such as fluctuating global trade dynamics, have further compounded the sluggish demand. Manufacturing activity has also seen a reduction, with many industries grappling with higher input costs and logistical challenges, thereby influencing PTFE production and procurement strategies.
Focusing on China, which has experienced the most significant price changes, the overall trend in Q2 2024 has been decidedly negative. Prices exhibited a seasonal dip, reflecting a -22.8% decline from the same quarter last year and a -3.5% reduction from the previous quarter in 2024. The correlation between reduced industrial activity, challenges in the EV sector, and the general economic climate has reinforced the bearish market sentiment. The quarter-ending price for PTFE Fine Cut-EXW Dongying in China stood at USD 6430/MT, underscoring the overall negative pricing environment.
Europe
In Q2 2024, the European Fluoropolymers (PTFE) market has experienced a consistent decline in prices, influenced by key factors that have permeated the industry. The ample availability of PTFE, coupled with strategic inventory management by industry players, has further reinforced the oversupply scenario. This is compounded by subdued purchasing activity among goods producers, driven by ongoing destocking efforts and a cautious market sentiment. Focusing exclusively on Germany, the nation has witnessed the most substantial fluctuations in PTFE pricing, reflecting broader market trends. Despite Germany's significant role in the automotive sector, a notable decline in demand from this industry has exacerbated the bearish pricing environment. Seasonal adjustments and the broader market's stability issues have also contributed to the negative sentiment in PTFE prices. Reflecting on year-over-year data, PTFE prices have decreased by 20.9% from the same quarter last year and recorded a 2% drop from the previous quarter in 2024. Additionally, a comparison between the first and second halves of the quarter reveals a further 2% decline, underscoring the persistent downward momentum. The latest price at the quarter's end stands at USD 13,620 per metric ton of PTFE Powder on a CFR Hamburg basis. This continuous decrease in prices highlights a negative pricing environment, driven by substantial supply and reduced demand.
For the Quarter Ending March 2024
North America
The Fluoropolymers (PTFE) market in North America again showcased a bullish trend throughout the first quarter of 2024. One of the key factors that affected the market was the sustained demand from the automotive industry. This sector continued to show consistent demand for PTFE, contributing to the overall bullishness of the market along with the tight spot flow.
In terms of regional dynamics, the United States witnessed the most significant price changes in the North American market. This was primarily due to the transition of the season, which led to an uptrend in the market. The change in the season resulted in increased sales of new vehicles, further driving the demand for PTFE. Moreover, the rising freight challenges during February 2024, prevented domestic customers from large purchases during this timeframe.
The Houthi strikes continued in January despite the Operational Prosperity Guardian naval task force which has led to an intensified US response and UK deliberations about striking Houthi forces in Yemen which eventually increased the freight rates from Asia to the USA during this timeframe.
APAC
The APAC region faced challenges in the Fluoropolymers (PTFE) market during the first quarter of 2024. Factors such as moderate demand from the electronics industry, increased input prices, and a modest supply of PTFE affected the market dynamics. Despite no reported plant shutdowns, the pricing dynamics were disrupted multiple times due to tight spot flow. China, being the largest market for PTFE in the region, witnessed a hike in prices due to moderate demand from the electronics and automotive sectors, showing a positive correlation with automotive industry demand. The need for PTFE, a crucial component of many automotive paints and coatings, remained strong amidst China's steady increase in downstream EV sales. According to CAAM data, China exported 443,000 automobiles in January 2024, making up 18.2% of the country's total sales. While, compared to the same quarter the previous year, PTFE prices in China experienced a significant decline of 17%. Moreover, the supply of PTFE cargo was hampered due to the post-festival as several production outages within the region have disrupted the usual flow of PTFE materials. The eight-day Lunar New Year holidays saw a lot of activity, although the rate of growth of new business remained mostly unchanged from January.
Europe
During the first quarter of 2024, the Fluoropolymers (PTFE) market in Europe demonstrated a bullish trend once more. The market was impacted by several important variables, one of which was the automotive industry's persistent need. Together with the restricted spot flow, this industry's persistent demand for PTFE added to the market's general bullishness. The increasing freight difficulties prevented domestic clients from big purchases. As a ripple effect, rates for freight increased, with Asia-North rates up 173% in Europe, and double in Asia-Mediterranean, and carriers were adding fees of $500 to $2,700 for each container during January 2024. With the high sales from the downstream automotive sector which registered, 870k new car registrations in February, the PV selling rate in Western Europe increased to 12.8 million units annually. Furthermore, the trading activities among the significant manufacturing units were raised as well to cope with the high demand. Compared to the same quarter in the previous year, prices increased by 25%, reflecting the overall market stability. Prices also experienced a 5% increase compared to the previous quarter.
