PP imports to Kazakhstan rise by 49% in the first two months of 2017

MOSCOW (MRC)–Imports of polypropylene (PP) into Kazakhstan increased in the first two months of 2017 by 49% year on year, exceeding 5,100 tonnes, according to MRC analysts.

February PP imports to Kazakhstan were 3,100 tonnes, compared to 2,000 tonnes a month earlier, with local converters increased their purchasing of propylene homopolymer (homopolymer PP) of raffia grade and pipe grade propylene copolymers. Demand for all PP grades increased.

February imports homopolymer PP exceeded 2,300 tonnes versus 1,500 tonnes a month earlier, local bags producers were actively building up inventories of material before start of the season. Thus, homopolymer PP imports grew in the first two months of 2017 to 3,800 tonnes, compared to 3,000 tonnes a year earlier.

February imports of propylene copolymers rose to 768 tonnes from 530 tonnes a month earlier. Imports of propylene copolymers reached 1,300 tonnes over the stated period, compared to 365 tonnes a year earlier. Local pipes producers accounted for the main increase in demand.

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