In the first half of March, European poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) prices remained stable, indicating a balanced market supply and demand. Continuous demand in sustainable packaging applications and stable raw material costs supported the steady trend in PBAT prices. As market participants did not perceive any significant changes, the economic outlook for the PBAT industry also remained stable.
The PBAT market is primarily driven by the sustainable packaging sector, covering segments such as agricultural films, food packaging films, and compostable bags. The pursuit of environmental-friendly alternatives continues to boost related consumption. The strong preference for biodegradable products among consumers ensures stable demand at the consumer end. PBAT also demonstrates steady performance in other application areas, thereby ensuring the overall resilience of demand.
European PBAT manufacturers ensure continuous market supply by aligning with the scale of market demand. Additionally, stable import and export activities prevent supply fluctuations. Both producer and consumer inventory levels remain sufficient, effectively avoiding unexpected price volatility and maintaining market stability.
In early March, the prices of key raw materials for PBAT, namely 1,4-butanediol (BDO), adipic acid, and purified terephthalic acid (PTA), remained stable. This allowed producers to maintain stable PBAT prices and avoid significant fluctuations. The stability of raw material prices is crucial for maintaining stable market prices for PBAT.
However, despite the current price stability, the plastic market may still face risks due to potential trade disputes between the EU and the US. The EU is preparing to impose tariffs on US goods in response to the recent US tariffs on EU steel and aluminum exports. Plastics are included in the EU's targeted countermeasures, and industry participants are closely monitoring the potential impact of this move on supply chains and price dynamics. Since bioplastics are also within the scope of the EU's response, industry insiders are paying close attention to the possible effects on supply chains and price dynamics.
Sustainability remains a focal point for the European plastics industry. Environmentalists emphasize the need to transition to a circular economy and reduce plastic production. The EU's Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) aims to increase the demand for PBAT in the long term by reducing plastic waste. However, against the backdrop of an uncertain global trade situation, how to balance the economy and the environment is still a question open for discussion.
According to ChemAnalyst database data, the price of PBAT in Europe is expected to remain stable in the near term. Market sentiment may be influenced by external factors such as geopolitical trade policies and evolving sustainability regulations. Market participants expect持续稳定的需求，但也明白需要提前为供应链可能出现的问题做好准备。 Corrected and completed translation: According to ChemAnalyst database data, the price of PBAT in Europe is expected to remain stable in the near term. Market sentiment may be influenced by external factors such as geopolitical trade policies and evolving sustainability regulations. Market participants expect demand to remain stable, but they also understand the need to prepare in advance for potential issues in the supply chain.
