Polyester POY Prices Ease: Regional Spread Emerges for 150D/48F Semi-Dull Grade

On July 3, 2026, the polyester POY market (150D/48F semi-dull grade) recorded a rare regional price divergence: Rongsheng Petrochemical’s ex-plant price in Hangzhou stood at 8,200 yuan/ton, while Juxing Chemical Fiber’s in Shaoxing was only 8,050 yuan/ton, a spread of 150 yuan. These figures, sourced from industry trading platforms, signal more than a routine fluctuation—they reveal the nuanced positioning of midstream players during the off-season.

The Logic Behind the Regional Spread

The spread stems from divergent pricing strategies. Rongsheng, as an integrated refining-chemical giant, enjoys lower feedstock costs from its PX-PTA chain, yet its higher 8,200 yuan/ton quote suggests a preference for margin preservation over volume. In contrast, Juxing’s 8,050 yuan/ton is closer to the market’s actual transaction level, reflecting cautious buying from small to medium weaving mills in Shaoxing, where operating rates remain subdued.

For buyers, this 150 yuan/ton gap translates directly into fabric cost advantages. However, sustainability depends on inventory turnover—if Rongsheng follows with a cut, the gap may narrow quickly.

Downstream Demand Transmission

The 150D/48F specification is a key raw material for water-jet looms producing taffeta and pongee. Its price directly reflects the operating sentiment in clusters like Shengze and Changxing. Current weaving operating rates in Jiangsu-Zhejiang hover at 65%-70%, with some mills opting for staggered production due to order shortages. Juxing’s price cut is a preemptive move to retain customers, while Rongsheng’s higher quote acts as a price anchor for long-term contract negotiations.

Outlook and Operational Suggestions

Polyester POY inventories are at medium-to-high levels, and with July-August being a traditional slow season plus potential power curbs, weaving rates could fall further. This points to downward pressure on POY prices. However, PTA costs remain supported by crude oil, providing a floor.

Thus, POY prices are likely to oscillate in a narrow range with a slight downward bias. The current spread may narrow to 50-80 yuan/ton within two weeks, and buyers should seize the Shaoxing low-price window for stocking.

For Buyers - Monitor quotes from smaller fiber mills in Shaoxing and Xiaoshan to capture regional discounts. - Adopt a phased procurement strategy for 150D/48F; avoid bulk purchases above 8,200 yuan/ton. - Negotiate price protection clauses to hedge against potential drops in late July.

For Exporters - Budget POY cost at 8,100 yuan/ton for export quotes, leaving a 150 yuan buffer. - Note that domestic POY prices are still 5%-8% lower than in India and Indonesia, preserving export competitiveness. - For orders due after August, consider locking in forward contracts during price dips to mitigate both raw material and FX risks.