The Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) market in the USA maintained price stability throughout December xxxx and into early January, with prices holding firm at USD xxxx per metric ton FOB Louisiana. This steadiness was underpinned by ample supply levels that balanced weak demand in downstream sectors, particularly the construction industry. Additionally, lower costs of feedstock Vinyl Acetate Monomer (VAM) helped reduce PVA production expenses, offering some relief to manufacturers.
Market sentiment remained subdued as constrained purchasing power among end-users continued to impact trading volumes, carrying over the effects of sluggish PVA sales from November. Efforts to lower prices had limited success, reflecting the market&#xx;s current challenges. Upstream, methanol prices are anticipated to rise due to an expected increase in Methanex&#xx;s monthly contract pricing. Despite this, weak methanol demand, restricted buyer power, and high shipping costs are likely to cap significant cost increases for PVA producers.
PVA manufacturing...
