ASF prices stable despite weak raw material cost

In China, medium-length staple fiber prices rolled over at US$1.79-2.01 a kg in the last week of February while cotton-type staple was at US$1.80-2.01 a kg.

Jilin Chemical Fiber maintained its February list prices for 1.5D and 3D medium-length at US$2.00-2.01 a kg, while tow was at US$2.10 a kg and top at US$2.25 a kg. Taiwan origin 3D bright ASF tow prices rolled over at US$1.60-1.70 a kg while offers for regular products were at US$1.56-1.60 a kg.

Acrylic staple fibre prices continued to remain range bound that week despite upstream, acrylonitrile prices were weak, lending limited support.

Downstream mills only replenished volumes from hand to mouth volume due to poor order-intake and some pre-holiday restocking. No massive restocking was reported on the week.

In China, Sinopec and PetroChina issued February settlement prices flat on the month. Offers from mainstream producers changed little as demand for flat fiber was subdued.

Prices in India and Pakistan generally rolled over amid insipid yarn markets. In India, ASF offers were at INR126-128 a kg or US$1.83-1.86 a kg. In Pakistan, 1.2D ASF prices were at PakRs.195 a kg (US$1.86 a kg).

Courtesy: Weekly PriceWatch Report