Polypropylene Q1 exports from Russia fell 22% year on year

MOSCOW (MRC)–Overall exports of polypropylene (PP) from Russia decreased in the first three months of 2016 by 22% year on year, totalling 96,100 tonnes.

All Russian producers reduced their export sales, according to MRC ScanPlast report.

Russian producers increased PP exports in March partially because of higher prices in foreign markets. Total export sales rose to 38,700 tonnes, compared to 30,300 tonnes a month earlier.

Overall PP exports dropped to 96,100 tonnes in January-March from 122,500 tonnes a year earlier.

All Russian producers cut their export sales of propylene polymers, with Poliom and Neftekhimia accounting for the greatest decline in exports.

In general, Tobolsk-Polymer, Russia’s largest PP producer, is the key exporter. Its share accounted for about 56% in the total exports over the stated period.

Poliom, with shipments of 13,800 tonnes, is the second largest exporter, whereas Neftekhimia, with 6,500 tonnes, is the third largest supplier for export.

Meanwhile, China, Belarus and Turkey are the key export destinations. Overall exports of Russian PP into these countries totalled 16,600  tonnes, 15,800 tonnes and 10,000 tonnes, respectively, in the first three months of the year.

Belgium and Ukraine, with 11,400 tonnes and 6,000 tonnes respectively, are also included in the top five importers.

MRC, a partner of ICIS, produces polymers news and pricing reports from Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan.