Import

In April 2025, China imported roughly 1,960 tonnes of PO, representing a year-on-year decrease of 90% and a month-on-month decrease of 87%. 

The sources of China’s PO imports are limited to two countries: the U.S. and Thailand. In April, imports from the U.S. reached 1,260 tonnes, while imports from Thailand were 701 tonnes. 

China’s PO imports from January to April 2025 amounted to 41,006 tonnes, only 42% of the import volume in the same period last year (97,766 tonnes). It indicates a remarkable reduction in China’s reliance on PO imports.

Export

In April 2025, China’s PO exports were 216 tonnes, remaining largely unchanged at a relatively low level. This has contributed to decreased costs for polyether polyols production domestically and enhanced price competitiveness of end products in overseas markets. 

China’s PO exports in the first four months of 2025 totaled 872 tonnes. The exporters are mostly based in Zhejiang, Shandong, and Jiangsu. India was the largest destination for China’s PO exports due to its polyols capacity expansion, accounting for 60% of total exports.

Figure 1: China’s Monthly PO Imports 2024-2025 (tonne)