ITP’s analysis of global trade projects a 3% increase in the volume of SAN polymer traded in 2014 versus 2013, to over 500,000 tons. Higher global trade volume generally indicates higher global demand.

Major trends in 2014 included a moderate expansion of SAN trade within the Asia-Pacific region, much higher imports into Western Europe and Africa versus the prior year, and, a small rise in imports into Eastern Europe. Imports into North America and Latin America declined.

China imported over 200,000 tons of SAN in 2014, up 12%, polymer sourced mainly from within the Asia-Pacific region.

Shipments abroad by Asia-Pacific, the world’s largest exporting region, rose 7% on gains to all regional markets except Latin America.