The US MDI market experienced soft end-of-year conditions as the volume of available supply rose while the interest of consumers remained lethargic, resulting in a fall in MDI prices. Demand across sectors was uneven. Furniture and bedding stayed soft as tepid retail sales and cautious consumer spending cut production of flexible foam. The construction sector offered solid support in part due to civil and infrastructure projects, which kept demand strong for rigid foams and insulation despite a slowdown in residential housing activity. The automotive industry gave moderate support due to strong car sales and increased interest in electric and hybrid vehicles. US production remained stable, underpinned by reliable feedstock availability, even though soaring energy prices continued to put margins under pressure. Exports have also remained steady amid shifting global shipping patterns.
