ABS Market “Too Hurt”: Prices Fall Below Key Threshold Before September

The ABS resin market is reeling from a steep downturn even before the usual autumn demand surge. Some domestic ABS prices have already slipped below the crucial ¥9,000 per ton mark, a psychological and cost threshold, ahead of September . Even certain higher-grade or imported ABS materials have fallen into the low-¥9000s range, underscoring the severity of the slump. Instead of gearing up for a “Golden September” boom, ABS producers are facing what feels like a “cold spell” rather than a golden feast. Weak downstream demand and ample supply have led to intense price competition, deeply cutting into margins. Industry observers lament that ABS has “taken a hit” early – the anticipated seasonal uptick never arrived, and the market pain came sooner and sharper. Unless end-user demand significantly improves, September is likely to bring continued challenges for ABS, with recovery prospects delayed beyond the hoped-for peak season.