The Traditional Flat Glass Keeps Low Demand But Fiber Glass Price Hikes

Flat glass: Supply and demand in a stalemate, still searching for a bottom

The float glass market is stuck in a delicate supply-demand balance right now, but trading activity remains sluggish. Although capacity has dropped about 10% from its peak, end-market demand-especially from real estate is still weak, making any real price recovery tough. Small and midsize players are feeling the heat from rising fuel costs like petroleum coke, and industry consolidation (i.e., phasing out outdated capacity) could pick up speed.

Fiberglass: Tight supply keeps pushing prices up

Unlike flat glass, the fiberglass sector is finally seeing some spring growth. AI-related demand in particular has lifted high-tech products like electronic fabrics, and prices rose month by month from January through May 2026. The market expects fiberglass to stay in tight supply with a surge in high-end demand for the rest of the year, which should help leading players post much stronger profits.