Executive Summary
Polyimide prices showed divergent regional trends during the quarter ending September 2025, reflecting differences in supply dynamics, downstream demand cycles, and inventory behavior across major global markets. In APAC, particularly China, polyimide prices declined sharply due to easing supply and aggressive discounting by domestic sellers. North America experienced pronounced spot volatility, with prices fluctuating on short-cycle order flows before firming in September amid semiconductor-led restocking. Meanwhile, Europe saw mixed price movements, with September declines driven by post-summer demand moderation and increased availability of imported film grades. Overall, the polyimide price forecast for Q4 2025 suggests a modest recovery bias, contingent on electronics demand, semiconductor production schedules, and global logistics normalization.
Global Overview of Polyimide Prices
Polyimide (PI) remains a critical high-performance polymer for industries requiring superior thermal stability, dielectric strength, and chemical resistance. During Q3 2025, global polyimide prices were influenced by uneven electronics demand, fluctuating production costs, and shifting trade flows. While upstream aromatic monomer and specialty solvent costs provided intermittent cost support, downstream procurement remained cautious for most of the quarter, limiting sustained price upside. The quarter ended with signs of stabilization, especially in electronics-heavy regions, supporting a cautiously optimistic global polyimide price outlook.
APAC Polyimide Prices Trend (Q3 2025)
China Market Performance
In China, polyimide prices came under significant pressure throughout the quarter. The Polyimide Price Index fell by 13.42% quarter-over-quarter, reflecting ample domestic supply and heightened competition among producers. Expanded operating rates at local PI film facilities, coupled with slower-than-expected export offtake, resulted in elevated inventories.
The average polyimide price during Q3 2025 stood at approximately USD 19,133.33 per metric ton on an FOB Qingdao basis. Polyimide spot prices softened steadily as manufacturers and traders offered discounts to clear stocks, particularly for standard film and substrate grades.
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Supply, Demand, and Pricing Dynamics
Supply easing was the dominant market theme in APAC. While demand from flexible printed circuits (FPCs) and consumer electronics remained stable, it was insufficient to absorb rising output. Buyers adopted a hand-to-mouth procurement strategy, further pressuring spot prices.
APAC Polyimide Price Forecast
Looking ahead, the polyimide price forecast for APAC indicates a modest recovery into Q4 2025, supported by potential restocking, seasonal electronics demand, and improved export logistics. However, upside remains capped unless inventory levels normalize and overseas demand strengthens meaningfully.
North America Polyimide Prices Trend (Q3 2025)
Market Volatility and Spot Movements
In North America, polyimide prices fluctuated throughout Q3 2025. The Polyimide Price Index moved up and down, reflecting alternating periods of spot tightness and softening, particularly for specialized film grades. Short-cycle order flows and uneven availability in merchant markets amplified volatility.
Why Prices Changed in September 2025
Polyimide prices increased in September 2025 as semiconductor suppliers and flexible PCB fabricators accelerated restocking ahead of new product ramps. This surge in procurement tightened the availability of merchant PI film and substrate lots, enabling suppliers to command spot premiums, especially for high-purity and electronics-grade materials.
Downstream Demand Drivers
Key downstream sectors supporting North American polyimide demand included:
- Flexible printed circuits (FPCs)
- Semiconductor insulation and advanced packaging
- Aerospace insulation films and composites
- High-temperature coatings and adhesives
- Medical device components
These applications require consistent performance at elevated temperatures, making polyimide a non-substitutable material in many use cases.
Production Costs, Supply, and Outlook
The polyimide production cost trend showed intermittent upward pressure from aromatic monomers, specialty solvents, and energy inputs. Selective capacity constraints at high-purity film lines further contributed to short-run price volatility.
The polyimide demand outlook for Q4 2025 remains constructive, particularly for electronics and aerospace. The polyimide price forecast assumes continued fluctuations with a mild upward bias, provided semiconductor and flex-PCB restocking persists.
đ đ Track real time Polyimide Prices and market trends on ChemAnalyst: https://www.chemanalyst.com/ChemAnalyst/PricingForm?Product=Polyimide
Europe Polyimide Prices Trend (Q3 2025)
Regional Price Behavior
Europe’s polyimide price index displayed noticeable swings during the quarter. Polyimide spot price volatility was largely driven by uneven demand from electronics, automotive, and aerospace converters. Early-quarter firmness gave way to softer conditions toward September.
Why Prices Changed in September 2025
In September 2025, polyimide prices declined as several converters curtailed purchasing after completing summer restocking programs. Additionally, the arrival of lower-cost imported film lots improved regional availability, easing earlier supply tightness and limiting sellers’ pricing power.
Downstream Applications Supporting Demand
European polyimide consumption is anchored by:
- Flexible circuitry and FPC substrates
- Aerospace and defense insulation films
- Automotive sensors and EV power electronics
- Specialty coatings and high-temperature adhesives
While these sectors provide a stable demand base, purchasing patterns remain project-driven, contributing to short-term price swings.
Production Cost Trends and Market Outlook
The polyimide production cost trend in Europe eased modestly toward the end of Q3, as some monomer and energy costs softened. Increased import competition further constrained domestic producers’ ability to pass on costs.
The polyimide demand outlook for Q4 2025 is cautiously positive, supported by potential new electronics and aerospace programs. The polyimide price forecast points to a sideways-to-moderate recovery, dependent on semiconductor output and automotive program cadence.
Conclusion: Polyimide Prices Outlook into Q4 2025
The quarter ending September 2025 highlighted the fragmented nature of the global polyimide market. While APAC faced sharp price declines due to oversupply, North America benefited from restocking-driven firmness, and Europe navigated mixed conditions amid import competition. Moving into Q4 2025, polyimide prices are expected to stabilize with a mild upward bias in regions where electronics and aerospace demand strengthens. However, sustained recovery will depend on inventory normalization, disciplined production rates, and consistent downstream offtake across high-performance applications.
Get Real time Prices for Polyimide: https://www.chemanalyst.com/Pricing-data/polyimide-1579
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