NPRA '02: Chem industry to overcome econ, security threats

25 March 2002 16:03  [Source: ICIS news]

SAN ANTONIO, Texas, (CNI)--Duane Gilliam, newly appointed chairman of the National Petrochemical & Refiners Association (NPRA), expressed optimism on Monday in the chemical industry’s ability to endure the current economic downturn and face down the threats posed by international terrorism.

In introducing the keynote speakers at today’s breakfast session of the 27^th annual International Petrochemical Conference (IPC), Gilliam also listed as major challenges public doubts about the safety of the chemical industry’s products plus fluctuations in feedstock prices and availability.

Gilliam, who is also executive vice president of Marathon Ashland Petroleum, told delegates at the NPRA-sponsored IPC, which continues through Tuesday, that the industry and the US had endured successfully in the past economic recession and threats to its security.

"As an industry and a nation we’ve been there before," said Gilliam in reiterating his confidence that the petrochemical industry would confront and overcome these challenges.

By: Neil Sinclair
+44 20 8652 3214

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