Despite shifting global trade policies, U.S. polyethylene exports saw solid growth in the first quarter, according to a new economic snapshot from the Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS).
According to the report, U.S. PE exports increased 11.6% over Q4 and rose 5.1% higher than the same period last year. China received the largest share at 16.4%. With exports going to five countries, all countries rose, led by a 31.7% jump in shipments to Brazil.
Imports, meanwhile, declined slightly with a 4.4% drop from the previous quarter and down 10.2% year-over-year. Canada remained the dominant source, accounting for nearly 87% of the exports. With exports far outpacing imports, the U.S. posted a first-quarter PE trade surplus of more than 3 billion kilograms.