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 →