China polycarbonate exports surged 46% in April to hit record high
According to data from the General Administration of Customs, China’s polycarbonate (PC) exports reached a historic monthly high of 63,000 tons in April 2026, surging 46.01% year-on-year.
Total exports for the first four months of the year reached 198,900 tons, an 8.15% increase compared to the same period last year.
What are the key drivers of export growth?
Global supply disruptions: Escalating conflicts in the Middle East caused upstream feedstock shortages, forcing overseas PC plants to cut production or shut down entirely. This triggered a sharp increase in international demand.
Stable domestic production: As the world's largest PC manufacturing hub, China maintained consistent output and stepped up to fill the global supply gap.
Resilient trade partnerships: China’s core export markets remained highly stable, with import volumes growing across all major trading partners.
How is the performance of top trading partners?
Vietnam: Imported 11,200 tons (+57.7% YoY), accounting for 17.8% of the total and ranking as the top destination.
Taiwan region: Imported 5,700 tons, holding steady year-on-year to secure the second spot.
India: Imported 5,000 tons (+77.6% YoY), heavily boosted by a temporary zero-tariff policy.
Export breakdown by Chinese provinces
Shandong: Exported 16,400 tons (+40.6% YoY), leading with a 26% market share.
Shanghai: Exported 15,400 tons (+43.7% YoY), capturing a 24.5% market share.
Hainan: Exported 1,400 tons (+340.7% YoY), registering the fastest growth rate in the country.
Overall Trend: Out of 25 exporting provinces and cities across China, only 5 saw a decline, reflecting widespread nationwide growth.
Market outlook
PC exports are projected to ease slightly in May to between 55,000 and 60,000 tons as overseas feedstock shortages resolve and international plant operating rates recover.
However, volumes to India are expected to stay above 5,000 tons, sustained by the country's ongoing zero-tariff policy.
