PMMA imports remain high in EU in 2021 and similar to 2020, with just over 10,000 metric tons, 33% more than in 2019.
In 2020, a surge in polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) demand for protective sheets absorbed the extra volumes.
However, since then, demand for sheets has weakened. This means the increased imports are now ensuring that the market is well supplied.
Moreover, as Asian players do not have the pressure of high energy costs, their prices remain competitive despite the high freight rates.
As such, domestic producers are struggling to increase margins in line with costs. This situation will probably continue in the second quarter of 2022.