Crude Oil

This week, international oil prices showed a downward trend. As of July 23, WTI was priced at $65.25/barrel, down 3.39% from July 17, while Brent crude traded at $68.51/barrel, down 1.45%. The decline was primarily driven by bearish factors, including expectations that OPEC+ may maintain significant production increases in September and lingering market concerns over U.S. tariff policies, which continued to pressure oil markets. Looking ahead, with OPEC+ still in a production hike cycle and tariff-related uncertainties persisting, oil prices may experience narrow-range declines next week.

Polyester Fiber

Polyester fiber prices edged slightly lower this week. Although improved macroeconomic sentiment provided some support to commodity markets, limited gains in the PTA sector—due to inventory buildup and weak end-user demand—kept polyester producers focused on active sales. Both filament and staple fiber average prices saw modest declines. Next week, as macro factors are expected to have limited real impact on the polyester industry and fundamentals remain weak, the market is likely to continue consolidating at low levels.

Nylon (PA)

Nylon filament prices dipped marginally this week. The downward trend in the nylon chain slowed, with caprolactam (CPL) spot prices stabilizing, offering some support. Filament prices adjusted slightly following Sinopec’s weekly CPL settlement, while some premium grades saw minor drops. Producers prioritized destocking, but weakening end-user demand prompted some to cut operating rates to balance supply and demand. Next week, with thin profit margins limiting further price concessions, the market is expected to remain weak and cautious.

Spandex

China’s spandex market softened slightly. While main raw material prices held steady and auxiliary materials firmed up, providing modest cost support, supply cuts helped maintain firm producer offers. However, sluggish end-user demand led suppliers to discount prices, pulling down negotiated levels. Next week, spandex raw material costs are likely to stay stable, but persistent demand weakness and industry losses may keep the market in a weak-but-stable pattern.

Viscose Staple Fiber (VSF)

The VSF market held steady this week. Downstream rayon yarn mills mostly procured on-demand, while VSF producers focused on fulfilling early-month orders, leaving prices largely unchanged. With dissolving pulp costs stable and yarn mills maintaining rigid demand, the VSF market is expected to continue its sideways consolidation next week.

Acrylic Fiber

Acrylic fiber prices stabilized this week. Acrylonitrile (ACN) prices remained deadlocked, and while end-user demand stayed subdued, tight spot availability in some regions supported overall price stability. Looking ahead, with ACN prices likely to stay range-bound and demand lacking significant upside, the acrylic fiber market should maintain its steady trend.

Data Sources: Longzhong Information, China Chemical Fibers Association