There is a good chance that prices will increase further in February.
PP prices increased €100/mt in January in Europe as supply tightens amid good demand.
Homopolymer injection moulding prices reached levels not seen since 2019, namely around €1,100/mt, according to GC Intelligence assessments.
Some deals in the distribution market were at €1,200/mt.
Polypropylene (PP) during the first wave of the pandemic suffered a substantial hit, with prices sinking below €1,000/mt.
But the picture has changed during the second wave. Contrary to expectations, demand found support throughout Q4, accelerating in December, and continuing in January.
In the meantime, several producers are reportedly experiencing production issues. And therefore, availability remains limited.
PP prices increased €100/mt also because of good demand.
Many buyers noted they are running at healthy rates but are fighting hard to secure volumes, which is stressing supply chains.
For now, there is a good chance that the current situation will continue in February, even if some ease is expected as production issues are resolved.
Nevertheless, unless there is a major collapse in activity downstream, a significant retreat in prices is highly unlikely.
