Cost drivers and tight supply support high volatility in bottle prices.

This week, the price of polyester bottle flakes showed an "N" trend, with an average price of 8670 yuan per ton in East China, an increase of 0.99% compared to the previous week. At the beginning of the week, geopolitical tensions pushed up costs and prices rose; in the middle of the week, disruptions from negotiations and high prices caused a price correction; on Thursday, maintenance at major PTA plants and strong price differentials led to a price rebound. Production remained stable on the supply side, with a slight tightness in spot circulation; demand was limited to just essential small orders. It is expected that prices will fluctuate slightly higher next week, with costs remaining the core driver. Geopolitical tensions and PTA maintenance will provide strong support, supply will remain tight, but downstream acceptance of high prices is limited. The expected price range is 8500-9300 yuan per ton.