PODCAST: Chemical markets distorted by logistics and panic buying, but underlying optimism seen for 2021

BARCELONA (ICIS)–The international chemical markets have been distorted by logistics bottlenecks and panic buying – but there is optimism for 2021 and beyond.

• Lack of China data makes economy, chemicals difficult to assess
• China’s recovery driven by raw material imports, finished good exports
• Panic buying may disguise health of underlying real demand
• Container shortage continues to disrupt markets
• A financial market bubble?
• Global chemical production, capacity utilisation rose sharply in January
• Optimism for 2021

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

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Interview by Will Beacham