Methyl ethyl ketone (MEK)

LONDON (ICIS)–Premiums for used cooking oil methyl ester (UCOME) were under pressure following a controversial move from the German government to release previously-blocked proof of sustainability (POS) certificates from a suspended hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) producer. Price impact on the spot European biodiesel market, more specifically on UCOME, materialized quickly with sharp drops over the two days since the news emerged on Tuesday. In an official statement,  the federal office of agriculture and food (BLE) said that following an investigation, it held “a strong suspicion that the HVO producer does not exist”, but made the decision to validate the POS certificates. The tickets are used to verify the sustainability of a biofuel. One source highlighted a significant market impact following the re-entry of the controversial tickets, adding that prices collapsed in a short span of two days. “It killed the UCOME market,” said the market source. Spot premiums for UCOME over gasoil dropped by US$ 75/tonne week on week, to reach US$ 780-790/tonne FOB ARA. A second player agreed the market had been “quite weak” since the news came out. A BLE press officer told ICIS on Friday the unblocking of the POS certificates takes "into account the possible protection of confidence" in line with the Biofuels Sustainability Ordinance, known in Germany as Biokraft-NachV. Controversy emerged as market participants voiced concerns over the release of the previously suspended proof of sustainability (POS) certificates back into the market and fuelling an oversupply. Issues began to emerge at the start of the year. The investigation also showed biofuels sustainability verification scheme ISCC suspended the user's certification in January. The government statement, published on Tuesday, also voiced doubts over the existence of the supplier which was meant to be based in the Netherlands. The HVO producer had been using the country’s Nabisy biofuels compliance registry, but its access has been revoked. In contrast, premiums for fatty acid methyl ester (FAME 0) and rapeseed methyl ester (RME) rose slightly this week. The German government said the Nabisy ticket scheme user, the HVO producer, used an address in the United Arab Emirates, but during an associated audit report had given a different address in Hong Kong. The impacted Nabisy users were asked to provide a “self-declaration on compliance”. The government statement also indicated further steps “in criminal law” were being considered.

09-May-2025

SINGAPORE (ICIS)–Here are the top stories from ICIS News Asia and the Middle East for the week ended 2 May. India RIL oil-to-chemicals fiscal Q4 earnings fall on poorer margins By Nurluqman Suratman 28-Apr-25 11:57 SINGAPORE (ICIS)–India's Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) late on 25 April reported a 10% year-on-year drop in its oil-to-chemicals (O2C) earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) on poorer transportation fuel cracks and subdued downstream chemical deltas. Asia naphtha market strengthens but uncertainties linger By Li Peng Seng 28-Apr-25 15:01 SINGAPORE (ICIS)–Asia’s naphtha intermonth spread hit a three-week high recently as market sentiment recovered following stronger demand from China, but the market ahead could be choppy on the back of volatile crude oil and trade war uncertainties. PODCAST: MMA market turmoil in China and Asia amid rising supply, weak demand By Yi Liang 28-Apr-25 15:19 SINGAPORE (ICIS)–In this podcast, ICIS analysts Jasmine Khoo and Mason Liang will talk about the current situation and outlook for the methyl methacrylate (MMA) market. INSIGHT: China new energy vehicle industry to continue driving polymer industry development By Chris Qi 28-Apr-25 18:31 SINGAPORE (ICIS)–China's automotive industry has maintained rapid growth over the last few years, with the expansion of the country's new energy vehicle (NEV) sector particularly notable, now accounting for 70% of global production. China’s Sinopec enters $4bn JV with Saudi Aramco unit for Fujian project By Jonathan Yee 29-Apr-25 12:19 SINGAPORE (ICIS)–China’s state-owned Sinopec has entered a joint venture (JV) with an Asian unit of Saudi Aramco to manage the second phase of a refining and petrochemical complex at Gulei in Fujian province, it said on 28 April. Asia glycerine may see restocking after Labour Day holiday By Helen Yan 29-Apr-25 14:34 SINGAPORE (ICIS)–Asia’s glycerine market may see a pick-up in restocking activities after the May Day or Labour Day holiday as Chinese buyers hold back their purchases, given the sluggish downstream epichlorohydrin (ECH) market and uncertainties over the US-China trade war. China Apr manufacturing activity shrinks on US tariffs pressure By Jonathan Yee 30-Apr-25 12:09 SINGAPORE (ICIS)–China’s manufacturing activity shrank in April as export orders weakened amid the intensifying trade war with the US, official data showed on Wednesday. INSIGHT: Rising costs to curtail China PDH runs, mixed impact on C3 derivatives By Seymour Chenxia 30-Apr-25 13:00 SINGAPORE (ICIS)–Chinese PDH producers are likely to lower operating rates as US-China trade tensions drive up propane import costs, which is expected to tighten propylene supply. However, the impact on downstream markets will be mixed due to varying feedstock sources. Asia VAM market to slow as China solar drive eases By Hwee Hwee Tan 02-May-25 11:35 SINGAPORE (ICIS)–Asia’s vinyl acetate monomer (VAM) supply is lengthening as spot demand tied to a major downstream sector is softening into May.

05-May-2025

SINGAPORE (ICIS)–Asia's petrochemical markets are poised for a resurgence in activity following the May Day holidays, with discussions subdued as buyers await signs of recovery and producers restart plants over the coming months. Producers to restart plants, refill inventories after holidays Delayed purchases until after holidays US has contacted China for trade talks – Chinese state media The May Day or Labor Day holiday is celebrated in China from 1-5 May, and in most other Asian countries on 1 May. Japan and South Korea also observe several days of holiday in May. Feedstock propane supply-demand fundamentals are being weighed on by the ongoing US-China trade war, which is affecting the cost of propane imports and could lead to reduced operating rates for propane dehydrogenation (PDH) units. This may tighten propylene supply in the longer term, potentially supporting prices if demand picks up. Demand has been sluggish in the propylene market, weighing prices down as producers maintain low inventories ahead of 1 May. However, after the Labor Day holiday, there is an expectation of increased supply, which may lead to a more balanced supply-demand scenario as they resume normal operations. Separately, the glycerine market in Asia is expected to see a notable pick-up in restocking activities after the holidays. Chinese buyers, who have been holding back purchases due to a sluggish downstream epichlorohydrin (ECH) market and uncertainties surrounding the US-China trade war, are likely to return to the market. “We will wait until after the Labor Day holidays before we commit to any purchases as we expect the downstream ECH market to slow down after the holidays,” a Chinese buyer said. The ECH market, a key downstream sector for glycerine, is anticipated to experience a price drop after the holidays due to demand remaining weak amid the US-China trade war. Asia's butyl glycol (BG) import prices were assessed as lower this week amid a bearish market sentiment amid unimproved demand conditions. In southeast Asia, the glycol ethers market is undergoing price adjustments as producers lower offers in anticipation of the Labor Day holidays. China's export prices for propylene glycol ether (PGE) also softened as sellers looked to increase sales before the holiday. Meanwhile, propylene glycol prices are expected to remain stable as market participants await the outcomes of the holiday period. In China, domestic prices have held steady, but the overall sentiment remains cautious due to the impact of the holiday on production and logistics. The stability in pricing reflects balanced supply-demand fundamentals, though any unexpected disruptions post-holiday could lead to short-term volatility. PRODUCERS ADJUSTING OUTPUT The acetic acid market is experiencing softening spot prices due to lengthening supply as plants restart operations following maintenance turnarounds. However, the holiday period is likely to further influence supply dynamics, with some producers adjusting output to manage inventory levels. In China, a new plant tied to a downstream ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) unit has come online. It is among other plants in Asia with a combined capacity of nearly 1.8 million tonnes/year which have either already restarted or are restarting in May, EVA-linked vinyl acetate monomer (VAM) demand is generally expected to slow as June approaches, when a pricing policy in China – which has spurred a rush in solar panel installations across the country – comes into effect. Concerns of slowing demand were kept on the boil in Asia ethyl acetate (etac) markets amid fluid developments surrounding trade tensions between the US and China, and its potential ripple effect on sentiment in the days ahead. Notably, market players were conscious of weakening product spreads or etac production margins. Eroding margins have thus left regional suppliers with little room to scale back asking levels, despite the current market climate that was viewed as largely skewed towards buyers. EYES ON POSSIBLE TRADE TALKSAs the US-China trade war persists, both sides have indicated a willingness to engage with each other on trade talks. On Friday, a spokesperson of China’s Ministry of Commerce said that senior US officials have “repeatedly expressed their willingness” to negotiate with China on tariffs, according to state media outlet CCTV. The spokesperson said that the US has sent requests hoping to talk to China, and the Asian country is currently evaluating them. “China's position is consistent. If we fight, we will fight to the end; if we talk, the door is open,” the spokesperson said. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has maintained that trade talks are ongoing between the two largest economies in the world, which Chinese state media denied. Amid US tariffs, manufacturing activity continued to remain sluggish across Asia, including China and Japan. In April, China's manufacturing activity shrank as export orders weakened due to the escalating trade war with the US. The official purchasing managers' index (PMI) dropped to 49.0, indicating contraction, down from 50.5 in March. Japan's manufacturing PMI rose to 48.7 in April from 48.4 in March, marking the tenth consecutive month of contraction. Focus article by Jonathan Yee Additional reporting by Seymour Chenxia, Helen Yan, Julia Tan, Joy Foo and Matthew Chong and Melanie Wee.

02-May-2025

HOUSTON (ICIS)–US based paints and coatings producer PPG has so far seen no changes in order patterns from its customers, and it has maintained its full-year guidance despite the tariffs imposed by the US. PPG's customers did not pull orders forward to the first quarter, and outside of Mexico, PPG did not see any significant changes in demand in the first quarter or in the first four months of the second quarter, said Tim Knavish, PPG CEO. He made his comments during an earnings conference call. "We have not seen evidence of any curtailment of customer orders in our business," he said. While PPG makes paints and coatings, it sells products to many end markets that are key for many chemical products, such as automotive, marine and aerospace. PPG's Q1 organic sales rose by 1% year on year, volumes and pricing rose, and the company gained market share from competitors. PPG shares rose by more than 4% while overall US stock markets fell. LIMITED EXPOSURE TO TARIFFSMost of PPG's operations buy raw materials locally at a rate of more than 95%, Knavish said. This limits their exposure to tariffs. The company has yet to see any significant changes to prices for its raw materials, he added. For two commodity feedstocks, epoxy resins and titanium dioxide (TiO2), PPG already withstood disruptions because these raw materials have been subject to anti-dumping and countervailing duties. Other upstream chemical products have excess supplies, Knavish said. For now, PPG's suppliers are favoring volumes over pricing. If suppliers begin raising prices because of tariffs, PPG will work with customers to reformulate products, substitute costly feedstock and pass through costs through surcharges and other measures. In regards to the threat posed to sales by tariffs, PPG's customers are spread around the world, and it is not heavily reliant on one country or region, Knavish said. Unlike commodity chemical producers, PPG does not rely on a continuous manufacturing process to make its products. It is a batch manufacturer, which makes it easier to adjust production to meet demand. PPG does not expect it will have to idle any of its lines, Knavish said. PROPOSED US TARIFFS HIT PPG MEXICAN BUSINESSIn Mexico, while PPG's store retail sales were solid, its project business weakened because of uncertainty about US trade policy. In February, the US proposed 25% tariffs on imports from Mexico, and the threat caused a slowdown in projects from companies and government, said Tim Knavish. He made his comments during an earnings conference call. That side of the Mexican business should remain soft in the second quarter, but PPG expects a recovery during the rest of the year. Many of the projects in question were already in flight, and PPG has not seen any cancellations. Moreover, the US is limiting the 25% tariffs to imports that do not comply with the trade agreement with its North American neighbors, the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). "We still believe Mexico remains a strong growth country for PPG," Knavish said. AEROSPACE YEARS-LONG BACKLOGPPG's sales to the aerospace industry are benefiting from a years-long backlog in orders caused by the COVID pandemic. This has been a long-term trend, and in addition to coatings, aerospace consumes several plastics and chemicals including synthetic hydraulic fluids and their additives, polycarbonate (PC), fibres in seating, resins in wire and cable, adhesives and electronic chemicals used in avionics. They also use composites made with epoxy resins and polyurethanes for seat cushions. PPG's aerospace backlogs extend to commercial, general aviation, after market and military, Knavish said. Vince Morales, chief financial officer, added that geopolitical turmoil is also increasing demand from the military. EUROPE BEGINS STABILIZINGFor the first time in several months, PPG is seeing some momentum in Europe, Knavish said. Industrial production is stabilizing and better order patterns are emerging in western Europe. Governments could increase spending, and Scandinavia is showing signs of recovery after two difficult years. Even the automobile sector is stabilizing. If the stabilization trend continues and if volumes increase slightly, then the improvement should provide a meaningful boost to PPG's earnings due to past cost cutting in Europe, Knavish said. That said, Knavish stressed that PPG is not expecting a sharp recovery in Europe. PAVEMENT COATINGS SUPPORTED BY INFRASTRUCTURE SPENDINGPPG sees no stop to government infrastructure projects, which are supporting demand for pavement coatings. Also, road crews have a backlog of projects because 2024 had a lot of rain and bad weather. Demand should remain strong through the year, Knavish said. Pavement coatings are made with methyl methacrylate (MMA). AUTOSPPG has gained market share among original equipment manufacturers in the automobile industry, and those share gains should allow the company to outperform the market, for which demand forecast are slightly down, Knavish said. PPG auto refinish business is focusing on the entire system of applying the paints and coatings, which allows it to weather inherent bumpiness in the market. Focus article by Al Greenwood Thumbnail shows paint, one of the products made by PPG. Image by Shutterstock.

30-Apr-2025

TORONTO (ICIS)–Canada will continue resorting to retaliatory tariffs against the US – regardless of which party, the incumbent Liberals or the opposition Conservatives, wins the upcoming 28 April federal election. In an election debate on Thursday evening, Prime Minister Mark Carney and Pierre Poilievre, leader of the Conservatives, both said that retaliatory tariffs were necessary to deter the US tariff threat. However, Carney said that Canada could not impose full-scale “dollar-for-dollar” counter-tariffs, given that the US economy is more than 10 times larger than Canada’s economy. Rather, the Liberals would aim at counter-tariffs that have maximum impact on the US, but only minimum impact on Canada. In opinion polls about the elections, the Liberals are currently on track for their fourth consecutive victory since 2015. Carney took over from former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on 14 March. AUTO EXEMPTION Carney also confirmed that the government will be granting exemptions to its 25% retaliatory tariffs on US autos that took effect on 9 April. The exemptions will apply to automakers that maintain production and investments in Canada, he said. According to information on the website of Canada’s finance ministry, a “performance-based remission framework” would allow automakers that continue to manufacture vehicles in Canada to import “a certain number” of US-assembled, USMCA-compliant vehicles into Canada, free of retaliatory tariffs. The number of tariff-free vehicles a company is permitted to import would be reduced if there are reductions in the automakers’ Canadian production or investments, according to the ministry. The automotive industry is a major global consumer of petrochemicals that contributes more than one-third of the raw material costs of an average vehicle. The automotive sector drives demand for chemicals such as polypropylene (PP), along with nylon, polystyrene (PS), styrene butadiene rubber (SBR), polyurethane (PU), methyl methacrylate (MMA) and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). Please also visit the ICIS topic pages:Automotive: Impact on chemicals, and US tariffs, policy – impact on chemicals and energy Thumbnail photo of Stellantis' Canadian auto assembly plant at Windsor, Ontario, where production was suspended because of tariff uncertainties (photo source: Stellantis)

18-Apr-2025

HOUSTON (ICIS)–Rates for shipping containers from east Asia and China to the US reversed direction and edged slightly higher this week as US tariffs went into effect and as capacity tightened. The increases are in line with global average rates, which ticked higher by 3% this week, according to supply chain advisors Drewry and as shown in the following chart. Rates from Shanghai to Los Angeles rose by 3% and rates from Shanghai to New York rose by 2%, as shown in the following chart. Drewry expects rates to increase in the coming weeks due to tariffs and reduced capacity. Rates from online freight shipping marketplace and platform provider Freightos also rose over the week, with Asia-USWC rates up by 3% and Asia-USEC rates up by 5%. Judah Levine, head of research at Freightos, said many shippers rushed to get cargo loaded in the small window before tariffs went into effect, but noted that there are concerns that the sudden policy changes could also mean delays at US customs for arriving shipments. Levine said he expects to see a drop in demand for containers into the US as shippers wait for the situation to stabilize. Peter Sand, chief analyst at ocean and freight rate analytics firm Xeneta, said global maritime supply chains have become more complex amid the trade war between the US and China. “Shippers will be monitoring freight costs across the major and secondary trades,” Sand said. “Japan, for example, is one the key trade partners with the US, so a rush to frontload goods could put upward pressure on spot rates on this trade.” Container ships and costs for shipping containers are relevant to the chemical industry because while most chemicals are liquids and are shipped in tankers, container ships transport polymers, such as polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP), are shipped in pellets. Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is also shipped in containers. They also transport liquid chemicals in isotanks. LIQUID TANKER RATES HOLD STEADY US liquid chemical tanker freight rates as assessed by ICIS held steady this week despite downward pressure for several trade lanes. There is downward pressure on rates along the USG-Asia trade lane as charterers are seeking to divert cargoes to other regions. Overall, most market participants continue to struggle with tariff uncertainties and other alternatives. As a result of the limited cargo activity, spot rates appear to be softening. However, methanol requirements from the region remain active to Asia. Similarly, rates from the USG to Rotterdam were steady this week, even as space among the regular carriers remains limited. However, several larger size cargos of caustic soda, methanol, MTBE, ethanol and styrene were seen in the market. Several outsiders have come on berth for both April and May, adding to the available tonnage for completion cargos. Easing demand for clean tankers has attracted those vessels to enter the chemical sector. Contract tonnage continues to prevail, with interest in styrene, methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE), methanol and ethanol. For the USG to South America trade lane, rates remain steady with a few inquiries for methanol and ethanol widely viewed in the market. Overall, the market was relatively quiet with fewer COA nominations, putting downward pressure on rates as more space has become available. On the bunker side, fuel prices have declined as well, on the back of plummeting energy prices, as a result week over week were softer. Additional reporting by Kevin Callahan Thumbnail image shows a stack of shipping containers. Image by Shutterstock

11-Apr-2025

MUMBAI (ICIS)–India’s Deepak Chem Tech Ltd (DCTL) plans to set up a manufacturing complex to produce phenol, acetone and isopropyl alcohol (IPA) at a cost of Indian rupee (Rs) 35 billion ($407 million). The company will build a 300,000 tonne/year phenol unit, a 185,000 tonne/year acetone plant and a 100,000 tonne/year IPA line at Dahej in the western Gujarat state, its parent firm Deepak Nitrite Ltd (DNL) said in a statement to the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) on 9 April. It expects to fund the new project through a mix of debt and equity. DCTL is a wholly owned subsidiary of DNL. “The new capacity of phenol and acetone would be integrated to produce polycarbonate (PC) resins,” DNL said. In November 2024, DCTL announced plans to build a new 165,000 tonne/year PC plant in Dahej using technology from US-based engineering materials producer Trinseo. Trinseo sold its PC technology license, as well as all of its proprietary PC equipment at Stade, Germany to DCTL last year. DCTL expects to begin operations at all the new plants in the fiscal year ending March 2028. Once the plants are operational, DCTL “will be one of the most integrated producers of PC,” it said, adding that the complex will help Deepak to meet India's growing market demand for PC-based products. To make its Dahej complex fully integrated, DNL’s wholly owned subsidiary Deepak Phenolics Ltd (DPL) entered into a 15-year agreement with Petronet LNG for the procurement of 250,000 tonne/year of feedstock propylene and 11,000 tonnes/year of hydrogen in October 2024. DPL currently produces 330,000 tonnes/year of phenol, 200,000 tonnes/year of acetone and 80,000 tonnes/year of IPA at its production complex at Dahej. In March, Deepak Advanced Materials Limited (DAML), another wholly owned subsidiary of DNL, began operations at its PC compounds facility at Vadodara in the Gujarat state. This facility produces PC compounds for the electronic and mobility sectors. Separately, DCTL also plans to invest Rs2.20 billion to build a plant that will manufacture specialty fluorochemicals. DNL also plans to commission its greenfield 40,000 tonne/year methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK) and 8000 tonne/year methyl isobutyl carbinol (MIBC) plants before September 2025. ($1 = Rs86.01)

11-Apr-2025

SINGAPORE (ICIS)–Here are the top stories from ICIS News Asia and the Middle East for the week ended 28 March. Japan Mar manufacturing activity deteriorates as output, new orders fall By Nurluqman Suratman 24-Mar-25 12:28 SINGAPORE (ICIS)–Japan's manufacturing purchasing managers' index (PMI) fell to 48.3 in March, marking its lowest point since February 2024 amid a sharp drop in output and new orders, preliminary estimates from au Jibun Bank showed on Monday. INSIGHT: Chandra Asri prioritizes Indonesia chlor-alkali-EDC project By Pearl Bantillo 24-Mar-25 19:42 SINGAPORE (ICIS)–Indonesian producer Chandra Asri Petrochemical is proceeding with its flagship chlor-alkali (CA) ethyl dichloride (EDC) project, taking a bottom-up approach in its planned second petrochemical complex amid a challenging global landscape. Asia MEK faces demand slowdown, mounting cost pressure entering Q2 By Joy Foo 25-Mar-25 13:19 SINGAPORE (ICIS)–Asia’s methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) prices have declined in March due to weakened demand, but Chinese makers’ cost pressure and low inventories may limit further market downside in the near term. INSIGHT: China's solar policy deadlines fuel volatility of EVA market By Joanne Wang 26-Mar-25 12:00 SINGAPORE (ICIS)–The recurring “rush-to-install” phenomenon in China’s photovoltaic (PV) industry- marked by deadlines like April 30 and May 31 – has profound ripple effects on China’s EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) market, a critical material for PV encapsulation films. INSIGHT: Can Q2 heavy turnarounds pull Asia MEG market out of its malaise? By Judith Wang 26-Mar-25 13:00 SINGAPORE (ICIS)–Asia's monoethylene glycol (MEG) prices had plunged to a six-month low by late March driven by slower-than-expected demand recovery and ample domestic supply in China. Emission regulations, lower cost needed for alternative marine fuels support – IEA By Jonathan Yee 26-Mar-25 17:41 SINGAPORE (ICIS)–Accelerating the transition to cleaner energy in the maritime sector will require emission regulations and financial incentives surrounding alternative fuels such as methanol and ammonia, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA)’s Regional Cooperation Centre. China presses on with PP exports as supply pressure intensifies By Jackie Wong 27-Mar-25 12:18 SINGAPORE (ICIS)–With self-sufficiency on the rise and even more production capacities coming onstream through 2027, China is pressing on with its polypropylene (PP) exports, even as weak economic conditions and slow end-product demand persist. Asia automakers’ shares slump on US’ 25% tariffs on car imports By Jonathan Yee 27-Mar-25 12:14 SINGAPORE (ICIS)–Shares of automotive companies in Asia slumped on Thursday after US President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing 25% tariffs on all foreign-made cars from 2 April. Asia imports more US ethane feedstock on diversification, trade diplomacy By Jonathan Yee 27-Mar-25 15:30 SINGAPORE (ICIS)–Asian petrochemical firms are expected to import more US ethane feedstock in the coming years as energy diversification efforts grow in the region, alongside southeast Asian leaders looking to improve trade relations with the US amid President Donald Trump’s tariff threats on countries with trade surpluses. S Korea carmakers call for government measures to mitigate US tariff impact By Nurluqman Suratman 28-Mar-25 12:44 SINGAPORE (ICIS)–South Korea’s automotive industry leaders on Friday called on the government to implement measures to soften the expected impact of US tariffs, which will take effect in early April. INSIGHT: Asia adipic acid waits on verdict from Europe ADD investigations By Josh Quah 28-Mar-25 13:00 SINGAPORE (ICIS)–An ongoing anti-dumping duty investigation from the European Commission on adipic acid imports from China have rocked Asia adipic markets in recent weeks.

31-Mar-2025

LONDON (ICIS)–Shell is looking to improve performance of its chemicals asset base by exploring strategic partnerships in the US and closures in Europe, the UK-based oil and gas major said on Tuesday. Presented at the firm’s capital markets day on Tuesday, Shell is looking to improve returns and cut capital spent on chemicals by 2030, through “high-grading” and closing select assets in Europe and potentially reducing its equity in US operations. The Wall Street Journal reported earlier this month that the company had tapped Morgan Stanley to conduct a strategic review of its chemicals portfolio, with potential sales of US and European assets on the table. The company did not comment on the reports in early March, but the focus on partnerships for its US chemicals assets points to the company retaining stakes in operations such as its Pennsylvania cracker and polyolefins complex. Shell has already rationalised part of its chemicals footprint in Asia with the sale of its Singapore refinery and petrochemicals assets to CAGPC, a partnership between Chandra Asri and Glencore Asian Holdings. The deal is expected to close in the first quarter of 2025. The firm has also announced some smaller closures in Europe over the last few years, including its orthoxylene and paraxylene assets in Wesseling, Germany, and its methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) production in Pernis, Netherlands. The Wesseling assets closed in 2023, with the Pernis measures expected in March-May this year. A spokesperson for the company declined to comment on what European assets are currently under review, or the timeline for the process. The capital market day strategy also includes a more substantial push on liquefied natural gas (LNG), targeting a 4-5% annual increase in sales through to 2030. The company is also looking to increase upstream production with annual oil and gas sales targeted to grow 1% to 2030, meaning that its 1.4 million barrel/day production levels over the next half-decade. “We want to become the world’s leading integrated gas and LNG business… while sustaining a material level of liquids production,” said CEO Wael Sawan. The producer is also looking ramp up cost-cutting, from $2 billion – 3 billion by the end of this year compared to 2022 levels, to $5 billion to $7 billion by the end of 2028. Thumbnail photo source: Shell

25-Mar-2025

SAN ANTONIO (ICIS)–Here is a summary of chemical market stories, heading into this year’s International Petrochemical Conference (IPC). Hosted by the American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers (AFPM), the IPC takes place on 23-25 March in San Antonio, Texas. AFPM ‘25: US tariffs, retaliation risk heightens uncertainty for chemicals, economies The threat of additional US tariffs, retaliatory tariffs from trading partners, and their potential impact is fostering a heightened level of uncertainty, dampening consumer, business and investor sentiment, along with clouding the 2025 outlook for chemicals and economies. AFPM '25: New US president brings chems regulatory relief, tariffs The new administration of US President Donald Trump is giving chemical companies a break on regulations and proposing tariffs on the nation's biggest trade partners and on the world. AFPM ’25: Shippers weigh tariffs, port charges on global supply chains Whether it is dealing with on-again, off-again tariffs, new charges at US ports for carriers with China-flagged vessels in their fleets, or booking passage through the Panama Canal, participants at this year's IPC have plenty to talk about. AFPM ’25: LatAm chemicals face uncertain outlook amid oversupply, trade policy woes Latin American petrochemicals face ongoing challenges from oversupplied markets and poor demand, with survival increasingly dependent on government protectionist measures. AFPM ’25: US propane supply long; ethane prices rising The US petrochemical industry is seeing a glut of upstream propane supply and rising prices for key feedstock ethane. AFPM ’25: Weak demand takes toll on US ethylene as supply concerns ease Persistently poor demand, underpinned by worries over global tariff policies and a sluggish US economy are putting downward pressure on US ethylene prices. AFPM ’25: US propylene demand weak despite recent supply disruptions Weak demand in the US propylene market has counterbalanced recent supply disruptions, pushing spot prices and sentiment lower. AFPM ’25: US BD supply lengthening; rubber demand optimistic US butadiene (BD) has been rather balanced in Q1 despite a couple of planned turnarounds and cracker outages limiting crude C4 deliveries, but supply is expected to lengthen, and demand is cautiously optimistic. AFPM ’25: US aromatics supply ample amid low demand Domestic supply of aromatics is ample and demand is relatively poor. AFPM ’25: US methanol exports, bunker fuel demand to grow, but domestic demand sentiment low US methanol participants’ outlook on the key downstream construction and automotive sectors has dimmed, but optimism continues for export growth and bunker fuel demand. AFPM ’25: Tariffs, weak demand weigh on US base oils Uncertain US trade policy paired with already weak finished lubricant demand weighs on base oil market sentiment. AFPM ’25: Trade policies dampening outlook for Americas PE The US polyethylene (PE) industry started 2025 with some early successes amid the backdrop of lower year-on-year GDP growth. Now, with the impact of volatile tariff policy on top of the aforementioned lower GDP forecast, the outlook for PE has fallen. AFPM '25: Tariffs to shape the trajectory of caustic soda in US and beyond The North American caustic soda market is facing continued headwinds coming via potential tariffs, a challenged PVC market and planned and unplanned outages. US President Donald Trump has threatened to implement tariffs on Mexico, Canada and the EU as well as on products that are directly tied to caustic soda but has delayed enactment on multiple occasions. These delays have bred uncertainty in the near-term outlook, impacting markets in the US and beyond. AFPM '25: US PVC to face headwinds from tariffs, economy The US polyvinyl chloride (PVC) market is facing continued headwinds as tariff-related uncertainties persist. The domestic PVC market is expected to grow between 1-3% in 2025 but continues to face challenges in housing and construction. Meanwhile, export markets continue to wrestle with the threat of protectionist policies and tariffs at home and abroad. AFPM ’25: US spot EG supply balanced-to-tight on heavy turnaround season; EO balanced Supply in the US ethylene glycols (EG) market is balanced-to-tight as the market is undergoing a heavy turnaround season. The US ethylene oxide (EO) market is balanced as demand from derivatives including surfactants is flat. AFPM ’25: US PET prices facing upward price pressure on tariffs, China’s antimony exports ban, peak seasonUS polyethylene terephthalate (PET) prices continue to face volatility as the market assesses the impacts of potential tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico. AFPM ’25: US PP volatility persists amid weak demand The US polypropylene (PP) market is facing weak demand, raw material volatility and tariff uncertainty. AFPM ’25: US ACN rationalization inevitable amid declining demand Production of acrylonitrile (ACN) in the US is being reduced or shuttered as already weak demand continues to fall and as downstream plants are shutting down. Changes to the supply/demand balance, trade flows and tariff uncertainties are weighing on market participants. AFPM ’25: US nylon trade flows shifting amid global capacity changes, tariff uncertainties US nylon imports and exports are changing as capacity becomes regionalized and geographically realigned. The subsequent changes to trade flows, price increase initiatives and tariff uncertainties are weighing on market participants. AFPM ’25: US ABS, PC face headwinds from closure and oversupply The US acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and polycarbonate (PC) markets are lackluster and oversupplied. Demand remains soft kicking off the year, and the closure of INEOS’s Addyston, Ohio, ABS facility and tariff uncertainties continue to pressure ABS and PC markets. AFPM ’25: US styrene market facing oversupply amid weak demand, trade uncertainty The US styrene market is transitioning from a period of supply tightness to one of potential oversupply, driven by weak derivative demand and the recent restart of Styrolution’s Bayport, Texas, unit. This return to full operation, coupled with subdued demand, suggests ample supply in the short term. AFPM ’25: US PS faces slow start to 2025 amid weak demand Domestic polystyrene (PS) demand started the year off weaker than expected, with limited restocking and slower markets. AFPM ’25: US phenol/acetone face challenging outlook heading into Q2 US phenol and acetone are grappling with a lot of moving pieces. AFPM ’25: US MMA facing new supply amid volatile demand heading into Q2 US methyl methacrylate (MMA) is facing evolving supply-and-demand dynamics. Roehm's new plant in Bay City, Texas, is in the final stage of start-up, but is not in operation yet. There is anticipation of sample product being available in Q2 for qualification purposes. AFPM ’25: US epoxy resins in flux amid duties, tariffs heading into Q2 US epoxy resins is grappling with changes in duties and trade policies. AFPM ’25: Acetic acid, VAM eyes impact of tariffs on demand, outages on supply The US acetic acid and vinyl acetate monomer (VAM) markets are waiting to see what impact shifting trade and tariff policy will have on domestic and export demand, while disruptions are beginning to tighten VAM supply. AFPM '25: US etac, butac, glycol ethers markets focus on upcoming paints, coatings demand US ethyl acetate (etac), butyl acetate (butac) and glycol ethers market participants are waiting to see if the upcoming paints and coatings season will reinvigorate demand that has been in a long-term slump. AFPM ’25: Low demand for US oxos, acrylates, plasticizers countering feedstock cost spikes US propylene derivatives oxo alcohols, acrylic acid, acrylate esters and plasticizers have been partly insulated from upstream costs spikes by low demand, focusing outlooks on volatile supply and uncertain demand. AFPM ’25: N Am expectations for H2 TiO2 demand rebound paused amid tariff implementations After initial expectations of stronger demand for titanium dioxide (TiO2) in the latter half of 2025, the North American market is now in flux following escalating tariff talks. AFPM ’25: US IPA, MEK markets look to supplies, upstream costs US isopropanol (IPA) market has an eye on costs as upstream propylene supplies are volatile, while the US methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) market is evaluating the impact of global capacity reductions. AFPM ’25: US melamine prices continue to face upward pressure on duties, tight supply US melamine is experiencing upward pricing pressure, thanks in large part to antidumping and countervailing duty sanctions and tight domestic supply. AFPM '25: US polyurethane industry braces for cascade effect of tariffs US polyurethane prices for toluene diisocyanate (TDI), methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) and a variety of polyether and polyester polyols continue to see increase pressure as the market assesses the impacts of potential tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico. AFPM ’25: US BDO market eyes costs, demand outlook uncertain US 1,4 butanediol (BDO) production costs have been mounting, and margins have been crunched. Supply is ample and demand has been lackluster. AFPM ’25: US propylene glycol demand begins softening after prior feedstock-driven uptick After a cold winter with strong demand for seasonal propylene glycol (PG) end-uses in antifreeze and de-icers in many parts of the US, demand is starting to cool. AFPM ’25: US MA sentiment cautious ahead of potentially volatile Q2 US maleic anhydride (MA) is facing a volatile economic backdrop. Spot feedstock normal butane has fallen below $1/gal in March due to the end of peak blending season and strong production. AFPM ’25: US PA, OX face trade uncertainty, production constraints US phthalic anhydride (PA) and orthoxylene (OX) demand remains relatively weak. Prices have been remaining flat and are expected to settle lower this month after losing mixed xylene (MX) price support and underlying crude oil price declines. AFPM '25: Tight feedstock availability to keep US fatty acids, alcohols firm despite demand woes Tight supplies and high prices for oleochemical feedstocks are expected to keep US oleochemicals prices relatively firm, as continued macroeconomic headwinds, including escalating trade tensions between the US and other countries, only further weigh on consumer sentiment and discourage players from taking long-term positions. AFPM '25: Historic drop in biodiesel production to keep US glycerine relatively firm A drop in US biodiesel production to levels not seen since Q1 2017 is likely to keep the floor on US glycerine prices relatively firm through at least H1 as imports of both crude and refined material fail to fully offset the short-term shortfalls in domestic supply. PRC ’25: US R-PET demand to fall short of 2025 expectations, but still see slow growth As the landmark year, 2025, swiftly passes, many within the US recycled polyethylene terephthalate (R-PET) industry doubt the demand and market growth promised by voluntary brand goals and regulatory post-consumer recycled (PCR) content minimums will come to fruition. PRC ’25: US pyrolysis recycling players churning through regulatory, economic uncertainty As both regulatory and economic landscapes continue to change, production and commercialization progress among pyrolysis based plastic recyclers continues to be mixed. Pyrolysis, a thermal depolymerization/conversion technology which targets polyolefin-heavy mixed plastic waste, or tires, is expected to become the dominant form of chemical recycling over the next decade. Visit the US tariffs, policy – impact on chemicals and energy topic page Visit the Macroeconomics: Impact on chemicals topic page Visit the Logistics: Impact on chemicals and energy topic page Visit the Recycled Plastics topic page

22-Mar-2025