Monthly Archives: September 2011

Japan’s Imports Slow; Exports Climb

After the tsunami in March 2011, Japan’s imports of many polymers and chemicals surged and exports dropped. A slowdown in imports was apparent in July, and also higher exports.  YTD, imports generally posted gains; exports, declines. Continue reading

Strong Demand for Polymers in Eastern Europe

Strong demand in Eastern Europe, particularly Turkey and Russia, was a positive factor in global trade in commodity and engineering polymers through the first half of 2011. Continue reading

China’s Polymer Imports Slow on Lower Demand

China’s imports of most polymers showed moderate declines through July 2011, ranging from down 2% to down 11%. Imports of EVA and propylene copolymers increased. Imports of methanol and ethylene were up sharply. Continue reading