Turkey’s Polymer Imports Fall Below 500,000 Tons in May Amid Trade Disruptions

Turkey’s polymer imports dropped sharply in May, falling below the 500,000-ton mark for the first time since February as logistical disruptions linked to the US-Iran conflict affected trade flows. Total polymer imports declined by 25% compared with April and were down 21% year on year. Import value also weakened, slipping to $633 million, reflecting softer buying activity and lower volumes across most major polymer segments.

Saudi Arabia remained Turkey’s largest supplier during the month, accounting for roughly a quarter of total imports. The United States and South Korea followed, while Russia and China held smaller shares of the market.

Polypropylene imports recorded a significant decline after strong volumes in previous months. Combined imports of homo-PP and PP copolymers fell by more than 20% from April, with Saudi Arabia continuing to dominate supply. South Korea and Russia also maintained notable positions in the PP market. The decline reflected slower purchasing activity and disruptions in regional trade movements.

Polyethylene imports also saw a steep correction after reaching multi-year highs in April. Combined imports of LDPE, LLDPE, mLLDPE and HDPE dropped by more than one-third month on month. The United States remained the leading supplier for LLDPE and mLLDPE grades, while Saudi Arabia retained a strong presence across several PE segments. Import values across all PE grades moved lower as volumes retreated significantly.

PVC imports extended their downward trend for a second consecutive month after reaching record levels earlier this year. Although volumes eased, the United States remained the largest supplier, followed by South Korea and China. Import values stayed relatively stable compared with April despite the decline in tonnage.

Among styrenics, PS imports fell after five consecutive months of growth, while EPS and ABS volumes also moved lower compared with April. However, ABS imports remained higher than the same period last year, supported by strong shipments from South Korea. EPS imports recorded the sharpest monthly decline among the styrenics segment.

PET markets showed mixed performance. PET bottle imports surged from April levels but remained far below last year's volumes, while PET textile imports continued to weaken on both monthly and annual comparisons. China remained the dominant supplier in both PET categories.

Overall, May data reflected a broad slowdown in polymer imports across Turkey as geopolitical disruptions, weaker demand, and cautious buying behavior weighed on trading activity.

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