For 2010, it has been forecast that the Asian economy will show significant economic growth. Unfortunately, however, the outlook for the advanced economy of Japan is bleak and continuing underperformance is expected. Against this backdrop, the author believes the Japanese petrochemical industry must focus on three issues. The first is the restructuring of domestic operations through rationalization of facilities, pursuit of synergistic effects by combining petrochemical operations, vertical integration with refineries, and the decommissioning of surplus capacity. Secondly, enhancement of added-value products through differentiation and diversification, and expansion overseas, especially in Asian markets, is important. Lastly, technological breakthroughs to solve environmental problems such as global warming will be increasingly important.
展开▼
