The polyester staple fiber (PSF) price list released on July 10, 2026 reveals a notable divergence: industrial-grade fiber balls (30-50mm diameter) held firm at 15,500 RMB/ton, while cotton-type 1.56dtex*38mm melt-spun variants ranged from 7,080 to 7,370 RMB/ton, a gap of nearly 110%. This split reflects underlying structural demand differences between industrial and textile sectors.
Product Divergence: Industrial vs. Textile
Fiber balls, supplied by Henan Kaijie Water Treatment Co. from Zhengzhou, maintained a uniform price of 15,500 RMB/ton across three specifications (30mm, 40mm, 50mm). This price stability is underpinned by rigid demand from water treatment and air filtration industries, where buyers are less price-sensitive and supply is more concentrated.
In contrast, cotton-type PSF (1.56dtex*38mm) is a key raw material for spinning and blending with cotton. Quotations varied by brand: Huahong (Wuxi, Jiangsu) at 7,080 RMB/ton, Yida (Suqian) at 7,220 RMB/ton, Xintuo (Xuzhou) at 7,330 RMB/ton, and Huaxicun (Wuxi) at 7,370 RMB/ton. The 290 RMB/ton spread among brands indicates differing inventory levels and cost management. The overall downward drift in cotton-type PSF prices aligns with sluggish downstream weaving activity and ongoing order migration to Southeast Asia.
Regional Supply: Jiangsu Dominates
All cotton-type PSF quotes originated from Jiangsu Province (Wuxi, Suqian, Xuzhou), the core polyester cluster with cost advantages from melt-spinning technology. However, within Wuxi, Huahong and Huaxicun showed a 290 RMB/ton difference, highlighting divergent pricing strategies due to varying feedstock procurement and plant utilization rates. For buyers, this creates arbitrage opportunities but demands frequent price tracking.
Practical Implications
The current PSF market operates on a dual track: industrial products remain firm, while textile grades face pressure. Procurement decisions must be tailored accordingly.
For Buyers - For cotton-type 1.56dtex*38mm, prioritize Huahong's 7,080 RMB/ton quote, but verify inventory and logistics costs. - For industrial fiber balls, the 15,500 RMB/ton level is stable with limited downside; purchase as needed and watch for alternative filter materials.
For Traders - The 290 RMB/ton spread in cotton-type PSF offers short-term arbitrage, but check actual availability and payment terms to avoid margin erosion by logistics. - Monitor PTA and MEG feedstock prices; a drop could further pressure cotton-type PSF. Consider forward contracts with spinners to hedge risk.
In summary, the structural divergence in PSF pricing is unlikely to narrow soon. Textile demand recovery hinges on autumn/winter orders, while industrial demand benefits from sustained environmental investments. Buyers and traders must adapt strategies based on their downstream customer profiles to avoid blanket pricing mistakes.