ITP’s analysis of global trade projects a 7% increase in the volume of PC polymer traded in 2014 versus 2013. Higher global trade volume generally indicates higher global demand.

Major trade trends in 2014 included increased imports into Asia-Pacific, the world’s largest import market, followed by Eastern Europe, Latin America and all other world regions except the Middle East.

Imports into the Middle East fell but exports from the region jumped over 30%, almost entirely on shipments from Saudi Arabia to Asia-Pacific. Exports from North America posted a more moderate increase on higher volumes to both Asia-Pacific and Latin America.

Improved demand in Western Europe was evident from an increase in the region’s intra-regional trade, higher imports, and lower exports.