AFPM ’19: US epoxy sentiment clouded as players monitor demand, Asia

SAN ANTONIO (ICIS)–There is uncertainty regarding the direction that US epoxy resin is headed going into April, according to sources on the sidelines of this year’s International Petrochemical Conference (IPC).

For the most part, indications are that prices for domestic and imported material flattened out in March, after several months of decreases.

Domestic and import suppliers are willing to be flexible with prices in order to remain competitive and to move product, despite recent talk of upward pressure.

Demand has been described as good, but not robust. Demand is expected to increase in the second quarter during the peak season.

But it is unclear what prices will do in April as the prevailing attitude among market players appears to be wait-and-watch amid mixed fundamentals in the US and Asia.

It is possible that a resolution to the US-China trade talks could create a floor for prices.

Hosted by the American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers (AFPM), the IPC takes place on 24-26 March in San Antonio, Texas.