ABS prices fall amid lacklustre market. European acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) prices fell in April due to a decrease in raw material costs and weak demand, according GC Intelligence assessments.
While the main feedstock, styrene monomer contract, saw a slight increase, prices for specialty, white, extrusion, and natural grades decreased by varying amounts.
The market remains lacklustre, with import volumes remaining relatively competitive. But suppliers are no longer willing to drop prices due to low margins.
Forecasts predict continued poor economic conditions, limiting any significant price increases in the coming months.
However, some pockets of recovery have been seen. For example in the furniture and automotive industries, activity has picked up, albeigt slightly. But overall demand remains sluggish.