Further to our recent communication regarding developments in the Middle East and global supply chain conditions, we would like to provide a further update on current market trends and the outlook for the coming months.

While Foodcare has maintained continuity of supply, cost pressures across raw materials, energy and freight continue to accelerate globally.

Below is a snapshot of key market indicators we are closely monitoring across our supply base.

Nitrile Butadiene Rubber (NBR)

• Significant upward pressure across nitrile glove supply, driven by rising feedstock costs and tightening availability
• Proposed increases in some segments are in the range of 30–40%
• Forward pricing remains uncertain across parts of the market, reflecting ongoing volatility in input costs
• Supply availability tightening across key regions, with some factories pausing production

Polyethylene (PE)

• Oil and naphtha have increased sharply through March, driving higher polymer costs globally
• Market increases of ~15–25% observed in key regions
• Many factories are:
  
  
  • Offering pricing for April production only
  • Accepting May orders without confirmed pricing

Polypropylene (PP)

• Finished product increases of 10–15% are now flowing through on March production
• Further increases expected, with impact flowing into landed cost from May onwards

*Click to enlarge graphs