The sharp rise in global crude oil prices is now directly impacting the cost structure of TPU layflat hoses — not only through TPU resin but even more severely through the polyester reinforcement layer.

Crude Oil Spike

In early March 2026, WTI crude briefly hit $102perbarrelandBrentrosetoabout$111 per barrel, driven by Middle East tensions. This triggered major cost increases for both key materials used in TPU layflat hoses.

Polyester Reinforcement: The Largest Cost Jump

For TPU layflat hoses, the polyester filament yarn used in the reinforcement layer saw the most dramatic increase. As of March 9, 2026, polyester filament prices had risen by approximately 40% compared to mid‑February levels. By March 2026, regular polyester filament yarn prices had climbed from around RMB 6,000 per metric ton in December 2025 to about RMB 9,000 per metric ton. This increase was driven almost entirely by higher crude oil prices.

TPU Resin Costs Also Rise

TPU resin prices followed a similar but less severe trend. Pure MDI prices rose about 27% in the first quarter, pushing TPU resin up by roughly 29% from January to March 2026. In late February, major TPU producers announced price increases of RMB 1,000–1,500 per metric ton, effective March 1.

Combined Impact on TPU Layflat Hose Costs

For hose manufacturers, the combined effect of higher polyester reinforcement and TPU resin costs has been severe. Polyester reinforcement alone pushed total production costs up by an estimated 20–25% in March, while TPU resin added another 8–10%. Overall material costs for TPU layflat hoses increased by approximately 28–35% during February–March 2026.

Outlook

Polyester filament prices have shown signs of stabilization but remain high. TPU resin costs are expected to continue rising in the coming months. End‑users should anticipate higher hose prices through the first half of 2026. This situation highlights how both the polyurethane cover and the polyester reinforcement are equally vulnerable to oil‑driven cost shocks.