Asia PET Resin Market Update: Export Prices Rebound Amid Raw Material Costs & Output Rationing

According to the October 2, 2026 ICIS Polyethylene Terephthalate report, benchmark export prices in China resumed their upward trajectory ahead of the National Day holiday[span_25](start_span)[span_25](end_span). Rising feedstock PTA values and persistently squeezed conversion margins have prompted producers to raise offer levels, while structural production rationing continues to limit regional availability[span_26](start_span)[span_26](end_span).

Key Price Indicators & Supply Metrics

• Cost Push & Discretionary Pricing: With key feedstock PTA holding firm between $927–$967/tonne and Asian conversion margins compressed, Chinese suppliers elevated FOB offers ahead of the holidays, with early-week October shipments quoted at $1,180–$1,220/tonne[span_27](start_span)[span_27](end_span)[span_28](start_span)[span_28](end_span)[span_29](start_span)[span_29](end_span).
• Prolonged Outages Anchor Supply: National operating rates remain subdued at 60.2%, underpinned by prolonged plant shutdowns, including Sanfame Group's units No. 6 and No. 7 (1,500 kt total capacity offline into late Q4)[span_30](start_span)[span_30](end_span). Low producer inventories of just 2–4 days eliminate selling pressure[span_31](start_span)[span_31](end_span)[span_32](start_span)[span_32](end_span).

Procurement Advisory for Global Converters

Although downstream converters are taking a cautious stance amid the seasonal year-end lull, supply rationing ensures a firm price baseline[span_33](start_span)[span_33](end_span). With forward November shipments currently quoted approximately $20/tonne below October levels, converters have an attractive structural opportunity to lock in fourth-quarter logistics and resin quotas before shipping lanes face renewed holiday tightening[span_34](start_span)[span_34](end_span).