Europe’s Caprolactam, PET and MEG Markets: Imports and Trade Policy Shape H2 2026

European caprolactam, PET and MEG markets face import pressure, low operating rates and changing trade policy in H2 2026.  

Key Takeaways

• Europe’s nylon 6 market remains slightly long and increasingly exposed to structural PA 6 resin imports from China, estimated at roughly 12,000 metric tons per month.
• Despite substantial PTA and PET rationalization in recent years, high imports and weak end demand continue to suppress European PET operating rates.
• The removal of the 5.5% duty on US-origin glycol is expected to improve the competitiveness of US glycols and derivatives into Europe or raise netbacks for US suppliers.

Caprolactam and Nylon 6: Restructuring Is Not Finished

Europe’s nylon 6 market remains slightly long and increasingly exposed to structural PA 6 resin imports from China, estimated at roughly 12,000 metric tons per month. Recent rationalization involving Fibrant, DOMO and LEUNA-Polyamid GmbH has changed the supply landscape, but uncertainty remains around capacity and availability through 2027.

PET: Rationalization Has Not Restored Operating Rates

Despite substantial PTA and PET rationalization in recent years, high imports and weak end demand continue to suppress European PET operating rates. Market participants are evaluating additional protective options, including a possible safeguard clause that could apply to PET and potentially other products in the polyester chain.

MEG: Tariff Removal Changes Import Economics

The removal of the 5.5% duty on US-origin glycol is expected to improve the competitiveness of US glycols and derivatives into Europe or raise netbacks for US suppliers. European ethylene oxide and glycol producers continue to operate at low rates. Market participants are also watching whether the tariff change becomes linked to the ongoing review of anti-dumping duties on monoethylene glycol imports from the United States and Saudi Arabia.

H2 Implications

Across all three chains, the balance between trade protection and import competitiveness will be central. European producers need stronger demand and improved operating rates, while buyers will continue to assess whether policy changes create more secure supply or simply redirect trade flows.