BLOG: China consulate closure underlines long-term split with US, potential big shift in petchems trade flows

LONDON (ICIS)–Click here to see the latest blog post on Asian Chemical Connections. The US’ decision to close the China consulate in Houston adds further momentum to the drift towards a bipolar world that’s been taking place over the past four years. The divisions between the US and China now seem so deep that repairing relationships is not going to be easy. We could end up with two economic and geopolitical blocs, one centred on the US and the other on China. The China-centred bloc would likely be the location of most of the world’s petrochemicals demand and may become self-sufficient in petrochemicals.

Editor’s note: This blog post is an opinion piece. The views expressed are those of the author, and do not necessarily represent those of ICIS.