China's Q1 2026 SBS exports up 19.68% YoY

China's SBS Q1 exports rose 19.68% YoY to 36.5kt (GACC), but weak domestic demand left a supply surplus as consumption hit only 188kt vs. 300-400kt supply (OilChem). Strong shipments to Europe and Southeast Asia filled plant turnaround and regional demand gaps. In Q2, high domestic costs and output cuts may reduce exports; monitor feedstock prices and export dynamics.

In the first quarter of 2026, China's SBS market saw weak domestic demand but strong export performance. According to the data of General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China (GACC), total SBS exports reached 36,500 tonnes in Q1, up 19.68% year-on-year and 9.89% quarter-on-quarter. Monthly exports remained