China Ethylene Imports Rise 9.18% In Jan-Feb 2026, Exports Plunge

China's ethylene imports posted a sharp increase in January 2026 before retreating in February, while exports remained at minimal levels, according to customs data.

In January, China imported 292,200 tonnes of ethylene, up 23.02% from the previous month and 34.61% higher than a year earlier. Imports fell to 180,200 tonnes in February, marking a 38.32% month-on-month decline and a 16.42% drop compared with the same period last year.

For the first two months of 2026, cumulative ethylene imports reached 472,500 tonnes, representing a year-on-year increase of 9.18%.

Exports Remain Subdued

China's ethylene exports continued to contract sharply during the same period. January exports totaled 171.74 tonnes, down 96.1% month-on-month and 97.79% year-on-year. In February, exports declined further to 33.04 tonnes, falling 80.76% from January and 98.91% compared with a year earlier.

Total exports for January and February stood at 204.78 tonnes, a steep 98.1% decrease from the same period last year.

Trade Structure And Key Partners

General trade and processing trade with imported materials dominated China's ethylene imports in the January–February period, accounting for 75.99% and 24.01% of total volumes, respectively.

South Korea remained the largest supplier, exporting 318,600 tonnes of ethylene to China, accounting for 67.43% of total imports. Japan supplied 51,800 tonnes, representing 10.96%, while Oman contributed 37,300 tonnes, or 7.9%.

All ethylene exports during the period were conducted under general trade. Singapore was the leading destination, receiving 72 tonnes, or 35.16% of total exports. Russia imported 51 tonnes, accounting for 24.91%, followed by the Philippines with 30 tonnes, representing 14.65%.

Market Overview

The data highlights continued reliance on imports to meet domestic demand, despite short-term fluctuations in monthly volumes, while export activity remains negligible in comparison.