Egypt PE Markets Surge to Record Levels as Import Prices Hit Multi-Year Highs

Polyethylene (PE) markets in Egypt have witnessed a sharp surge, with both import and domestic prices climbing to unprecedented levels following fresh April offers from key suppliers. The ongoing supply disruptions linked to the Middle East conflict have driven a steep rise in costs, pushing import prices up by nearly 80% since the war began.

Market participants reported significant monthly increases, with import HDPE and LLDPE film prices rising by around $200/ton, while LDPE recorded comparatively smaller gains of about $160–170/ton. These hikes have been fueled by escalating production costs, freight challenges, and persistent geopolitical uncertainties.

Import Markets Hit Multi-Year Peaks

Import prices for HDPE and LLDPE film have now reached their highest levels since 2008, surpassing even the peaks observed during the pandemic period. LDPE prices have also climbed significantly, touching their highest point since 2021, though still slightly below previous pandemic highs.

Domestic Market Follows with Record Gains

Egypt’s local PE market has mirrored the upward trend, with sharp increases across all major grades. Recent weekly hikes include:

HDPE film: Up by EGP 8,000–15,000/ton ($160–300/ton)
LLDPE film: Up by EGP 4,000–16,000/ton ($80–320/ton)
LDPE film: Up by EGP 16,000–20,000/ton ($320–400/ton)

Overall, domestic prices have risen by approximately 50–60% since the start of the conflict, pushing local market levels to all-time highs in Egyptian pound terms.

Shift Toward Local Supply

With rising import costs and increased uncertainty around shipments, many buyers are increasingly turning to domestic suppliers despite elevated local prices. The reduced risks associated with local sourcing, compared to volatile import cargoes, have made domestic material relatively more attractive.

Although import markets have seen stronger overall gains, local prices continue to offer a competitive edge due to lower exposure to logistics disruptions and surcharges.

Outlook

The Egyptian PE market remains under strong upward pressure, supported by tight global supply and ongoing disruptions in key sourcing regions. Unless supply conditions improve, prices are expected to stay elevated, with buyers continuing to balance between costly imports and high but more reliable domestic material.

Stay ahead of market trends with the Credco app. For any queries, please reach out via WhatsApp at +91 8448083211.