LDPE and LLDPE film repro prices declined last week as supplies continued to build.
Mixed-colors LDPE film repro was discussed at 29 to 30 cents per pound and LLDPE film at 30 to 31 cents per pound, FOB East Coast and Midwest, both down 3 cents per pound. The supply growth, which began last month, is tied to the availability of low-priced off-grade LD and LLDPE resin and robust generation of LD and LLDPE film repro from converters (re-processors) who buy sorted and unsorted plastic scrap from municipalities and MRFs.
In the prime polyethylene market, spot prices were mostly lower last week, as domestic demand appeared soft. Export business was steady, but there was talk that prices would need to fall further in November to spur additional sales. Preliminary industry data for October showed North American suppliers’ PE inventories building by 323 million pounds, amid average production rates and below-average sales in both domestic and export channels. LLDPE had the largest inventory build of the three major PE categories, with operating rates improving to 99 percent of reported capacity.
For a free trial to PCW’s Weekly Recycled Plastics Report, Weekly PVC & Pipe Report or Daily report on prime resins, monomers and NGLs visit the PetroChem Wire website at petrochemwire.com. You can also contact Cindy Bryan at cindy@petrochemwire.com or 713-385-1407.
