Polyethylene price today
Polyethylene price today
Polyethylene (Polyethylene or PE) Polyethylene price today is one of the most widely used polymers in the world, which is used in various
industries from packaging to the manufacture of pipes and plastic parts due to its unique properties, including flexibility, chemical resistance
and relatively low production cost. This material is obtained from the polymerization of ethylene (C₂H₄).
And it is divided into different types such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and linear low-density
polyethylene (LLDPE).
The price of polyethylene today, as a key raw material, has a direct impact on the cost of producing many everyday products, from plastic
bags and bottles to water pipes, industrial insulation, plastic products, and even some components of children’s toys. Fluctuations in the
price of this material can affect the supply chain and consumer market. We will examine this further below.
Factors Affecting the Price of Polyethylene
The price of polyethylene today is influenced by a set of internal and external factors, which will be examined for you by Ali Foad below.
1. Crude Oil and Natural Gas Prices
Polyethylene is a petroleum derivative and, as such, its price is directly related to fluctuations in the price of crude oil and natural gas. Since
ethylene (the raw material for polyethylene production) is obtained from oil refining processes or natural gas cracking, an increase in oil
prices (due to factors such as geopolitical tensions or a decrease in global production) usually leads to an increase in the price of
polyethylene. On April 5, 2025, prices are expected to be influenced by global supply and demand, given the relative stability of the oil
market after the tensions of last year.
2. Supply and Demand in the Global Market
Demand for polyethylene in industries such as packaging, construction and agriculture is constantly changing. For example, during the
COVID-19 pandemic, demand for single-use plastics (such as bags and containers) increased, pushing up prices. Conversely, a reduction in
industrial activity in some regions could increase supply and drive down prices.
3. Exchange rate and its impact in Iran
In Iran, the price of polyethylene is highly dependent on the exchange rate because a large part of the raw materials or production
equipment is imported from abroad. Given the fluctuations in the dollar rate in the free market and the government’s exchange rate policies,
the price of polyethylene in the domestic market can change rapidly and depends on the dollar in Iran.
4. Costs and technology
Energy costs, human resources, and the technology used in polyethylene production also play an important role in the final price, and the
use of advanced technologies can improve product quality but increase production costs.
5. Unexpected events
Natural disturbances (such as storms in producing areas) or political events (sanctions and trade restrictions) can disrupt supply and raise
prices. For example, sanctions on Iran in recent years have limited access to global markets and increased the costs of supplying raw
materials.
Types of Polyethylene and Prices
Polyethylene is produced in different grades and types, each of which has its own application and price:
1. High-density polyethylene (HDPE)
This type of polyethylene is used in the production of pipes, tanks, and durable bottles due to its high strength and resistance to chemicals.
HDPE is usually used more than other types because its production requires low pressure and temperature and offers higher quality.
2. Low-density polyethylene (LDPE)
LDPE is more flexible and is used in plastic bags, packaging films, and coatings. It is produced at high pressure, which is more expensive,
but its widespread demand keeps its price competitive in the market.
3. Linear Low Density Polyethylene (LLDPE)
This type offers a combination of the properties of HDPE and LDPE and is used in specialty packaging and agricultural films. Its price is
usually between the other two types and depends on the grade and additives used.
4. Recycled Polyethylene
With increasing attention to environmental sustainability, recycled polyethylene has also entered the market. The price of this type is usually
lower than virgin polyethylene, but its variable quality can affect its use.
Iran Polyethylene Price Status (April 5, 2025)
In Iran, polyethylene prices are usually determined through formal and informal markets, with domestic producers supplying their products
to the market.
Polyethylene prices are affected by the following factors:
Exchange rate: Assuming the dollar remains relatively stable within the range seen in recent months, prices are likely to have declined
compared to the peak of last year’s volatility.
Domestic production: Production units are operating at high capacity, but feedstock supply issues and periodic maintenance sometimes
limit supply.
Seasonal demand: Demand for agricultural and packaging pipes increases in the spring and summer, which can push prices up.
For more accurate information, producers and buyers can refer to reliable market sources that publish daily prices, however, in general, the
price of each kilogram of polyethylene (depending on the grade) in the Iranian free market may range between 40,000 and 60,000 Tomans
(including the current exchange rate).
Global Polyethylene Price Trends
Increasing production in Asia: Key production regions have increased supply by launching new units.
Focus on sustainability: Demand for recycled and biodegradable polyethylene is growing.
Energy volatility: Producers are facing challenges due to rising natural gas prices in some regions, which may affect global supply
According to recent reports, the global price of HDPE polyethylene in Asian markets in early 2025 was around $900-1,100 per ton. LDPE is
slightly more expensive and is traded in the range of $1,000-1,200
Conclusion
Today’s polyethylene price, both in Iran and globally, is the result of a complex interaction of economic, industrial, and environmental factors
that make this material an integral part of modern life. Ultimately, with technological advancements and the move towards a sustainable
economy, the future of polyethylene is expected to experience significant changes not only in terms of price, but also in terms of quality and
environmental impacts. To purchase this export product, contact Ali Foad suppliers now.
