Insight
Chinese port congestion interrupts global plastic supply chain
*Please note that this report only includes an Excel data file if this is indicated in "What's included" below
Report summary
Operations at a terminal at Ningbo Zhoushan, China’s second-largest container port, have been suspended after a worker tested positive for Covid-19, worsening the port congestion along China’s east coast and ultimately disrupting the global plastic supply chain. The Ningbo Zhoushan suspension will impact Chinese polyethylene imports of HDPE resin and exports of plastic end products (finished goods) to the international market. What will be the impact of this disruption to Chinese markets and international markets?
Table of contents
- Executive summary
- Background
- Ningbo Zhoushan is China’s second largest port by containers handled and the largest by total volume handled
- Port suspension will impact HDPE resin imports, but likely to be offset by ramping domestic capacities and other East China ports
- The impact on plastic end product exports is the major issue
- Chinese trade partners repatriating the converting operations due to supply chain issues
- Major Conclusions
Tables and charts
This report includes the following images and tables:
-
Ningbo Zhoushan port polyethylene imports consist of more HDPE than other gradesProduction of Chinese plastic end products increased by 18.2% in H1 2021, stable from AprilChinese major export partners of film, profile and pipeUS downstream operation rate has picked up since April
What's included
This report contains:
Other reports you may be interested in
Wallmap
Copper Mines, Smelters and Refineries
Copper Mines, Smelters and Refineries Wallmap
$550
Insight
China economic focus October 2025: outlook for the 15th Five-Year Plan
China faces challenges in the next five years to achieving its long-term 2025 growth target.
$1,150
Country Report
Global iron ore supply summary 2025
Iron ore margins remain strong in 2025. Avg cost: US$59.8/t. Capex rises to US$17.2B, driven by quality upgrades and emissions goals.
$6,750
