PMMA

European pmma market faces downturn amid import competition. In September, the European polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) market experienced a consistent decline in prices across all segments due to competition from cost-effective imports.

Despite a brief uptick in demand, attributed more to post-summer activity than genuine recovery, various sectors report significant downturns.

According to analysis by GC Intelligence, forecasts predict continued market challenges, with hopes for a rebound now shifting to 2025 due to potential economic headwinds including inflation and rising energy costs.

While the market remains well-supplied, the declining European prices are impacting import volumes, though MMA spot prices remain competitive.

EU27 PMMA imports surge, according to the latest data from Eurostat. EU27 has witnessed a dramatic rise in polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) imports in 2023, hitting a two-year peak in May with 7,792 metric tonnes (MT).

The surge is largely attributed to softer demand in Asia coupled with a more favourable cost position. These factors have led to an influx of PMMA into the EU27 market.

This higher supply amidst weaker domestic demand has squeezed margins for European suppliers. Increased competition from competitively priced imports has further dampened prospects for these suppliers.

The low demand and competitive imports situation is likely to continue, with no signs of a turnaround. European suppliers may have to endure these market conditions, possibly till the end of the year.

PMMA import surge strains EU27 market. Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) imports into the European Union’s 27 member states (EU27) experienced a significant surge in April 2023, adding pressure to an already struggling market.

According to Eurostat, imports reached 6,199 metric tonnes (MT), representing a 48.1% increase compared to the same period last year. This rise in imports can be attributed to weak demand in Asia, particularly in China.

The notable increase in PMMA imports exacerbates the challenges faced by the European market, which is already grappling with low demand.

The poor demand in Asia has likely prompted suppliers to redirect their excess PMMA inventory to the EU27 market. This surge in imports further strains the struggling European market.

Roehm to close Westwego. Roehm America LLC has announced the closure of its Westwego methyl methacrylate (MMA) production plant in Louisiana by June 2025.

The decision comes as the company prepares to open a new state-of-the-art MMA production facility in Bay City, Texas.

The Westwego plant, currently employing approximately 70 workers, will continue operations until the scheduled shutdown.

The Texas facility, set for completion in the first half of 2024, will produce 250,000 metric tons of MMA annually and create 70 direct jobs.

Methyl methacrylate (MMA) is used in the production of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), coatings, and dental materials.