Polyolefin markets facing downturn on slowing demand and continued capacity builds

摘要

Polyolefins, comprising several grades of polyethy-lene (PE) and polypropylene (PP), are the most important thermoplastics, and serve several end-uses. Demand for these materials continue to see robust growth in emerging markets, while in the developed triad of North America, Western Europe and Japan, there is only modest growth, if that. For some time now China, has been the engine of growth, but that is changing. Furthermore, new dynamics, especially sustainability initiatives, that are yet to play out fully, could radically alter the business landscape, posing challenge for incumbents and new entrants.