ABS

EU ABS trade declines sharply in January, according to recent data by Eurostat. EU27 experienced notable changes in the trade of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) in January 2023.

Exports decreased substantially, while imports showed a mixed trend compared to previous years.

According to the data provided, ABS exports from the EU27 region in January 2023 were 15,431 metric tonnes (MT).

This was a sharp decline of 28.9% compared to the same month in 2022, when exports reached 21,726 MT.

The export numbers in January 2021 were slightly lower than 2022, standing at 19,222 MT.

On the import side, the EU27 region saw 13,226 MT of ABS imports in January 2023.

This is a significant decrease of 47.1% compared to January 2022, when imports reached a high of 25,005 MT.

However, this figure represents a 9.7% decrease compared to January 2021, when imports were 14,644 MT.

EU ABS price drop in March amid poor demand, according to GC Intelligence assessments. European acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) prices experienced a decrease in March.

The decrease represents ongoing competitive imports, low demand, and an unexpected dip in the styrene monomer contract price.

The market has been struggling to recover from the loss in demand seen in recent months.

The price forecasts have been adjusted downwards to reflect the weaker market conditions.

Demand has marginally increased since its low point at the end of last year, but growth has been hindered by various factors.

Some of these include flat activity levels in most markets and low consumer confidence.

Despite automotive sector growth, other industries like construction and electronics face negative market conditions.

Concerns about another banking crisis could further suppress demand for ABS plastic.

In the short term, a supply deficit could arise if demand bounces back, but there are currently no signs supporting this view.

The market is expected to face ongoing economic pressures from inflation and energy.

This should continue to impact consumer spending and hinder any recovery during the first half of the year.

European ABS prices remain stable in February as stable raw material prices and improving demand kept prices unchanged from January.

Despite downward pressure from lower gas prices, buyers failed for the most part to secure decreases.

Domestic demand is still sluggish, but positive signs have been seen in consumer confidence and the furniture industry.

The recovery has been slow, and ABS supply in Europe is ample, with low operating rates and reduced trade.

However, there could be shortages if demand rebounds strongly and producers struggle to increase production fast enough.

Competitive imports, lower exports, poor demand, and lower gas prices have pushed ABS prices down in recent months.

However, after the low point in December, players are now seeing a slightly more stable market.