ITP’s analysis of global trade projects the volume of ABS polymer traded in 2014, just over 4 million tons, to be unchanged versus 2013. Global trade volume that does not change over a period generally indicates no change in demand.

Trends in 2014 included a 2% decline in ABS trade volume within the Asia-Pacific region, an increase of 2% in that region’s exports abroad, substantially higher imports into Western Europe, and, moderately higher imports into North America.

Imports into Western Europe were up over 20%, polymer mainly from Asia-Pacific. Imports into North America rose 5%, Asia-Pacific also the top source, followed by Latin America.

Imports into Eastern Europe and Latin America each were down by 1%-3%.