Japan’s April YTD shipments of ABS, polyacetals and SAN were down; polycarbonates exports increased slightly.
More Ethylene, Benzene and Methanol Traded in 2011; Less Propylene
World trade volume was up 3%-9% for ethylene, benzene and methanol; down 3% for propylene.
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MEG and DEG Global Trade Expands Further in 2011
Both MEG and DEG global trade volume increased in 2011, although the growth rate for MEG was down substantially from 2010. Continue reading
US Exports of Glycols Surge; China a Major Market
US exports of MEG were up 32% through March 2012 and DEG shipments jumped 49%, mainly on volumes to China.
Demand Slows for Polyacetals, Polycarbonates and PET in 2011
Lower demand in 2011 was apparent from reduced global trade in polyacetals, polycarbonates and PET, volumes down 1%-5%. Continue reading
PVC Trade Flat in 2011; Mixed Trends for EDC and VCM
There was no change in the volume of PVC traded globally in 2011, 11.4 million tons. This compared with a 9% increase in 2010 and a 3% rise in 2009.
US Exports More LDPE and LLDPE, Less HDPE in 1st Qtr
US exports of LDPE and LLDPE were up substantially in the first quarter of 2012 versus 1Qtr 2011, but HDPE shipments dropped. Higher volumes went to Mexico and Venezuela; exports to Brazil fell; China and other markets were mixed.
PSX Trade Grows in 2011; PSN, ABS, SAN and Styrene Trade Contracts
Weak demand was apparent from the reduced volumes of PSN, ABS, SAN and styrene traded globally in 2011. PSX trade volume expanded, but at a slower rate than in 2010.
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Mixed Trends for Polyolefins Trade in 2011
Trends in global polyolefins trade volume in 2011 were mixed: up 3%-5% for LDPE, HDPE, polypropylene and propylene copolymers; up 14% for ethylene copolymers; and down 1% for LLDPE and 3% for EVA. Continue reading
China’s Scrap Polymer Imports are Large and Growing
Imports into China of scrap and waste commodity polymers are large, growing, and should be considered along with imports of virgin polymer in analyzing China’s demand. Continue reading