ICIS - chemical podcasts
ICIS - chemical podcasts 300 episodes Nov 6, 2026
This podcast is brought to you by ICIS, a leading global price discovery service for the oil, energy, fertilizer and petrochemical sectors.
Episodes
Episode 1511: EUDR transition drives cautious strategies in Europe oleochemicals
LONSON (ICIS)--An evolving supply landscape, cautious procurement and continued ambiguity surrounding the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) are shaping European oleochemical markets, as glycerine, fatty alcohols and fatty acids navigate logistical constraints, contract negotiations and shifting pricing dynamics.In this podcast, senior editor manager Eashani Chavda joins markets editor Na
Episode 1510: Think Tank: Europe must choose which chemical value chains to save
Increasing pressure caused by high energy costs and rising exports from China will force Europe into difficult decisions over which strategic chemical value chains to save. - Chinese ethylene capacity forecast to rise from 60 million tonnes/year in 2025 to 81m tonnes/year by 2030- Chinese producers are exporting more, shifting towards specialties - Europe must identify strategically impor
Episode 1509: Sustainably Speaking: Why ReVentas is building 750,000 tonnes of dissolution recycling capacity
Recycling technology company ReVentas is building three quarters of a million tonnes of dissolution recycling capacity, directly and through technology licensing, with European regulatory targets in mind. But what is dissolution? How does it compare to traditional mechanical and chemical recycling? And is there enough demand to justify this build-out? ReVentas CEO Tom Rose discusses these
Episode 1508: Think Tank: Europe chemicals need new ways of evaluating low carbon technologies
Europe’s petrochemical industry needs to find innovative ways to evaluate decarbonizing technologies amidst an increasingly tough global competitive environment.
Decarbonization must improve competitiveness, not simply cut emissions
A competitiveness ladder can prioritise decarbonization investments
Cost and intensity of electricity, best use of limited green electrons, value in market, w
Episode 1507: PODCAST: Europe oxo-alcohols and derivatives facing high-cost, weak-demand challenges for October
LONDON (ICIS)--The oxo-alcohol and derivative markets continue to face the challenges of high energy and feedstock costs, coupled with weak demand.However, beneath the surface ,additional challenges such as supply disruptions as antidumping duty measures are also shaping the market.Acrylate esters editor Mathew Jolin-Beech is joined by glycol ethers editor Cameron Birch and oxo-alcohols a
Episode 1506: PODCAST: Supply uncertainties remain key talking point in 2027 Asian C3 contracts
SINGAPORE(ICIS)--The Asian propylene market balance is expected to tighten in 2027, with demand from new downstream capacities expected to outpace growth in propylene capacity. Meanwhile, feedstock supply disruptions and price volatility are adding uncertainty to propylene plant operations.As negotiations for 2027 term contracts get under way following Enmore’s Annual Olefins Conference i
Episode 1505: Firefighting, restructuring and tug of war - ICIS experts sum up Fakuma fair
LONDON (ICIS)--Existential questions and disappointing demand were the dish of the day at the 30th Fakuma trade fair for plastics processing in Friedrichshafen, Germany.ICIS editors and analysts pick out their key takeaways from the fair, which saw more than 50% of exhibitors come from outside of Germany for the first time ever. It is a statistic which echoes a wider trend seen across pla
Episode 1504: PODCAST: 2027 Asia olefins, styrenics contract talks kick off in Guiyang, China
GUIYANG (ICIS)--At the 21st International Olefins and Styrenics Summit in Guiyang, China, conversations coalesce around capacity rationalizations, uncertainty over new capacity timelines and China's evolving role in Asia petrochemical markets in 2027 and beyond. ICIS market editor Joy Foo and senior editors Luffy Wu, Josh Quah discuss the implications for Asia's propylene, styrene and eth
Episode 1503: Think Tank: Europe chemicals expect more action on trade after auto deal with China
BARCELONA (ICIS)--Following an EU quota deal struck with China on hybrid electric vehicle imports, the region’s chemical industry is hopeful of stronger protection for chemicals from soaring levels of imports.
China chemical imports to EU rose 35% year-on-year January-August 2026
EU chemical safeguard proposals possible by December
Hybrid car quotas could support European chemical deman
Episode 1502: EPCA '26: Industry focuses on reliance amid geopolitical, sustainability challenges
At the 60th annual European Petrochemicals Association (EPCA) meeting last week, discussion around the traditional sustainability agenda has shifted into a broader conversation about industrial resilience.
Speakers argue for a return to a balanced approach that considers environmental performance, financial performance and customer and societal needs
Disruptions to global trade routes and
Episode 1501: Think Tank: Europe chemicals in perfect storm, action needed now before it is too late: INEOS
BARCELONA (ICIS)--Europe’s petrochemical industry is in steep decline and the region risks losing access to locally-produced critical raw materials unless stronger, faster action is taken by political leaders and regulators.
Increasing reliance in Europe on imported critical raw materials for healthcare, defence and industrial value chains
Europe chemicals faces existential threat
Middle
Episode 1500: PODCAST: Europe oxo-alcohols, derivatives markets' cost uncertainty persists as 2027 contract discussions begin
LONDON (ICIS)--Europe oxo-alcohols and derivatives markets continue to face high cost uncertainty and volatility as Q4 beckons. Sentiment in the market remains widely mixed after a subdued start to the autumn on the purchasing side. As 2027 contract discussions commence, there is a renewed focus on sourcing origin, particularly for products which were more exposed to Middle East origin ex
Episode 1499: Think Tank: BASF merger with Evonik could create integrated regional leader
BARCELONA (ICIS)--As Europe’s chemical industry battles for survival, a BASF tie up with Evonik could form a regional leader capable of competing in a chronically oversupplied global market.
Complementary portfolios could create integrated champion
Regional leaders offer scale and broader market resilience
Local-for-local manufacturing is replacing globalisation
European capacity closures
Episode 1498: Think Tank: Fecc '26 - European distributors plug supply chain gaps as war drags on
As the Middle East war continues, many chemical distributors in Europe are growing their sales and margins by helping customers maintain security of supply through this period of intense disruption.
Middle East disruption tightens global chemical supply
Higher uncertainty supports stronger distributor margins
Customers buy chemicals more on a hand-to-mouth basis
Stockholding helps distrib
Episode 1497: Hesitancy, US-Iran war overshadow Europe, Middle East, India PE/PP
This year has seen record price highs, then plunging lows, as polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) were rocked by the US-Iran war and choppy Red Sea logistics disruption.After a brief hiatus, the European PE & PP podcast returns, as ICIS senior editors unpick what the Middle Eastern war has meant for September pricing and what we expect for the rest of the year.ICIS senior editor
Episode 1496: Middle East crisis threatens shortages, higher prices and inflation
The spread of conflict across the Middle East threatens another period of extreme market volatility, as players face up to increasing disruption with strategic reserves much lower than at the start of the conflict. • Seizure of the port of Mokha and Perim Island in the Bab Al-Mandeb Strait, threatens the closure a second key Gulf trade route• Global diesel supply critically short with Rus
Episode 1495: Think Tank: Rising gas prices will squeeze Europe chemicals, fertilizers
Europe’s increasing reliance on LNG leaves chemical producers exposed to winter price and supply shocks as the Middle East war drags on.
Europe has become more reliant on LNG since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022
Russian gas market share has dropped sharply from up to 40% to below 10%
Strait of Hormuz closure has removed major Qatari LNG, representing 20% of global supply
European
Episode 1494: Europe oxo-alcohols, derivatives seasonally subdued amid Rhine logistics constraints
The summer lull continued to limit spot business across Europe's oxo-alcohols and derivatives markets, while Rhine water levels fell to exceptionally low levels through much of August, disrupting logistics and restricting barge traffic. Although recent rainfall has provided some relief, Rhine logistics remain a key uncertainty as market participants turn their attention to the traditional
Episode 1493: PODCAST: How the US-Iran conflict is reshaping India's PE, PP markets (part two)
SINGAPORE (ICIS)--India's dependence on polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) imports from the Middle East has made the country vulnerable to disruptions stemming from the ongoing US-Iran conflict.In this podcast, ICIS market specialist Aswin Kondapally discusses feedstock constraints on domestic production, how China has helped bridge supply gaps, and the shifting priorities of buyers
Episode 1492: PODCAST: How the US-Iran conflict is reshaping India's PE, PP markets (part one)
SINGAPORE (ICIS)--India's dependence on polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) imports from the Middle East has made the country vulnerable to disruptions stemming from the ongoing US-Iran conflict.In this podcast, ICIS market specialist Aswin Kondapally discusses feedstock constraints on domestic production, how China has helped bridge supply gaps, and the shifting priorities of buyers
Episode 1491: PODCAST: China's styrene export position strengthens; FOB China assessment gains support
SINGAPORE (ICIS)--China's rapid expansion of styrene monomer (SM) capacity has transformed the country into an increasingly important exporter. By mid-2024, China's export volumes had overtaken imports, prompting ICIS to launch its FOB China SM assessment in August 2024. China became a net exporter in 2025, and growing liquidity has since increased the relevance of the FOB China benchmark
Episode 1490: Think Tank: China slowdown deepens chemicals market pressure
China's economic downturn and expanding chemicals capacity continue to challenge global producers.
China manufacturing and services contract, according to latest purchasing manager indices (PMIs)
Property crisis remains an important drag
Ageing population weakens domestic demand
Limited stimulus constrains economic recovery
Exports remain strong despite slowdown
Trade barriers circumvente
Episode 1489: EU, US epoxy markets faced a volatile H1, skittish geopolitics casts shadow over H2
A complex tariff landscape, geopolitical instability in the Middle East, upstream volatility and demand struggles are key talking points in the Europe and US epoxy markets.In this podcast, Heidi Finch, who covers the Europe epoxy market, and fellow senior editor Tarun Raizada, who covers the US epoxy market, recap on what has been a very volatile and challenging H1, in particular due to u
Episode 1488: Think Tank: War boosts Q2 chemicals but risks mount for rest of year
After a strong Q2, chemical companies face an uncertain second half beset by weak demand, potential feedstock shortages and River Rhine disruption.- European chemical profits rose sharply in Q2- Producers upgrade full-year earnings forecasts- Q2 gains driven by conflict-led pricing, margins- Demand weak across key sectors- Little momentum seen
Episode 1487: PODCAST: Asia PET resin market faces margin pressure, export challenges amid feedstock volatility
SINGAPORE (ICIS)--Asia PET resin prices have been shaped by volatile feedstock costs, while producer margins have narrowed to around breakeven levels. In this ICIS podcast, Senior Analyst Jimmy Zhang and Senior Editor Judith Wang discuss the impact of the US-Iran conflict on feedstock markets, the challenges facing Asia PET resin exports, and the outlook for the regional market.
Upstream
Episode 1486: Think Tank: War brings new risks for gas supply, especially for Europe and Asia
The Middle East conflict is disrupting global gas markets, with increased risks for Europe and Asia gas supply security.
European storage levels below last year
Germany faces particularly low inventories
Middle East disruption limits LNG availability
Europe competing with Asia for cargoes
Gas prices likely to remain elevated
Demand destruction may soften impact of low storage levels
LNG m
Episode 1485: China PE Market Outlook for H2 2026: Navigating a Wave of Supply Growth
In the latest ICIS podcast, analysts Haiyan, Joanne and Amy discuss the outlook for China’s PE market in H2 2026. The team explores how expanding supply, changing trade flows and demand uncertainties could shape the market in the months ahead.
Episode 1485: China PE Market Outlook for H2 2026: Navigating a Wave of Supply Growth
In the latest ICIS podcast, analysts Haiyan, Joanne and Amy discuss the outlook for China’s PE market in H2 2026. The team explores how expanding supply, changing trade flows and demand uncertainties could shape the market in the months ahead.
Episode 1484: Think Tank: Renewed Middle East conflict deepens chemical market uncertainty
Escalating Middle East tensions and weak consumer demand are creating new risks for global energy and chemical markets.
Oil prices rise towards $90/barrel
Strait of Hormuz disruption hits energy flows again
Bab el Mandeb Strait blockade risk grows, threatening access to the Red Sea and Suez Canal
European gas stocks remain vulnerable
Rhine low water disrupts logistics
Chemical supply chai
Episode 1483: PODCAST: Oxo-alcohols and derivatives seeing summer slowdown btu uncertainty ahead for H2 2026
As we enter H2 2026, there is plenty happening in the market – although on the surface, much like a swan, things may appear relatively calm. Underneath, lots happening and moving, shaping the markets for the rest of the year.Acrylate esters editor Mat Jolin-Beech is joined by glycol ethers editor Cameron Birch and oxo-alcohols and butac editor Marion Boakye to discuss the market.
Episode 1482: Think Tank: Hormuz tensions bring renewed threats to oil and chemical markets
Renewed US-Iran tensions and Russian refinery disruptions are raising concerns over energy supplies, inflation and chemical market demand.• Prolonged disruption could trigger a major supply shock• Russian refinery outages are tightening fuel product supplies• Chemical markets remain cautious despite rising crude prices• Higher energy costs could fuel inflation and demand weakness• Global
Episode 1481: Think Tank: Europe more exposed as China ramps up exports, Suez Canal reopens
Europe’s chemical industry will become increasingly exposed to competition from China, the Middle East and the rest of Asia if more shippers return to the Suez Canal.
Maersk, Hapag-LLoyd reopen one Gemini service through the Suez Canal
China becomes increasingly self-sufficiency in chemicals
Switches from net importer to exporter for some important products
Growth of chemicals post-2030 c
Episode 1480: PODCAST: Global BD prices tumble as markets shift from supply fears to demand concerns
LONDON (ICIS)-- Butadiene (BD) prices have tumbled globally from highs after a volatile second quarter, as markets continue to adjust to the fallout from the US-Iran conflictIn this episode, ICIS Europe BD editor Melissa Hurley discusses the latest market developments and outlook with Ai Teng Lim (Asia), Elaine Zhang (China), and senior BD analysts Gawaine Preston (Europe) and Ann Sun (As
Episode 1479: Think Tank: The story of a Lebanese chemical distributor
Running a chemical distribution company in a conflict zone such as Lebanon requires determination and agility to keep the business running while ensuring the safety of employees. - High levels of stress but a resolve to adapt to conflict conditions - Very difficult operating environment with displaced population- Maintaining stock levels is a key challenge-
Episode 1478: PODCAST: Phenol & Acetone Derivatives: Volatility, Supply Shifts and a Fragile Q3 Outlook
LONDON (ICIS)--A turbulent Q2 saw the phenol and acetone value chain rocked by geopolitical disruption, cost inflation and shifting supply-demand dynamics, with prices surging before easing as markets rebalanced.In this Q2 episode of the Acetone and Derivatives podcast, ICIS experts unpack the key drivers across phenol, acetone, BPA, epoxy and polycarbonate, and explore a cautious, uncert
Episode 1477: Think Tank: Sale of stockpiles explains China’s massive wartime export boost
From March to May, China has exported record amounts of chemicals despite falling production as companies work through huge inventories built up over the past few years.
China chemicals production has fallen, but exports are soaring
Inventory levels in China are much higher than people suspected
Higher prices mean that this is now being exported
China operators still run despite poor econ
Episode 1476: PODCAST: Europe oxo-alcohols and derivatives markets see sentiment cool as market adjusts to falling cost base and declining geopolitical risk premium
LONDON (ICIS)--Europe oxo-alcohols and derivatives markets continue to digest geopolitical developments regarding shifting dynamics in the Persian Gulf and the price correction lower across many feedstock markets of late. Uncertainty remains high but bearish price sentiment has been growing as availability concerns fade and demand expectations into the summer months remain relatively subd
Episode 1475: Increasing polyols from China to Europe a key concern at industry conference
Rising imports from China were a central theme highlighted by multiple market players on the side-lines of the annual EUROPUR and EURO-MOULDERS conference, held in Antwerp, Belgium, on 10–11 June 2026.In this episode, European markets editor Zubair Adam for polyols who had attended the event, discusses with Isaac Tan his Asian counterpart, key developments on the China to Europe trade lan
Episode 1474: Think Tank: Regionalization of industry will give Velogy the edge in Europe
As the global chemical industry moves towards a more regional business model, Velogy – the new company carved out of former LyondellBasell assets – will be able to serve European customers from within Europe.
Customers increasingly want to take “Europe for Europe” approach to ensure security of supply
Chemical industry is moving from global to regional structure, and this will help Velogy
Episode 1473: Think Tank: Chemical distributors adapt to Middle East war impact
BARCELONA (ICIS)--European chemical distributors are flexing their business models to ensure that supply chains still operate effectively despite the Middle East war.
Chemical supply chains are becoming more flexible
Supply reliability and diversification are now key competitive advantages
To thrive distributors need to diversify supply chains, adopt a more ‘local for local’ approach
Dist
Episode 1472: Sustainably Speaking: Making food grade rPOs commercially viable
Recycling editor Sam Lovatt speaks to Nextek CEO Ed Kosior about the company's new European food grade recycled polyolefin technology, the recycling market in general, 2030 deadlines and everything in between.
Episode 1471: Think Tank: Oil spike risk to $150 threatens chemical industry, economy
A potential surge in oil prices to $140–150/barrel could trigger demand destruction, volatility and disruption across global chemical markets.- Further delays to reopening of Strait of Hormuz could see oil prices rise to $140–150/bbl- Higher oil would drive panic buying then sharp demand destruction as downstream customers cannot absorb costs - Markets are alrea
Episode 1470: APIC '26: PODCAST: Olefins, vinyls players process post-war impact of Chinese exports
FUKUOKA, Japan (ICIS)--In this podcast, ICIS editors Josh Quah, Joy Foo, Ai Teng Lim and Jonathan Chou discuss the ongoing developments in Asia olefins and vinyls on the sidelines of Asia Petrochemicals Industry Conference (APIC) 2026 conference. The editors cover trends in ethylene, propylene, butadiene and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), as well as shifting trade flows across the region. With
Episode 1469: APIC '26: PODCAST: MMA downstream stays pessimistic despite easing feedstock concerns
SINGAPORE (ICIS)--Asian methyl methacrylate (MMA) markets continue to feel the impact of supply shocks seen in early March, with no near-term resolution in the Middle East conflict.Producers continue to grapple with costs from high-priced inventories built up during earlier panic buying, while struggling to pass these on to downstream buyers. This comes as easing feedstock conditions exer
Episode 1468: PODCAST: Asia acetic acid in roller coaster ride amid Middle East strife
In this podcast, Hwee Hwee Tan, Ann Sun and Jady Ma will talk about the volatility of Asia acetic acid market and key drivers.They also explored the cost difference and fundamental divergence between China and the rest of Asia.
Episode 1467: Think Tank: Recruitment in chemical industry trends to less roles, but better defined
Years of tough market conditions in the global chemical sector are changing recruitment practices with companies now taking fewer new hires and with a much clearer view of return on investment. - Recruitment practices have sharpened as market conditions have become tougher - Less roles on the market, but now greater clarity on return on investment (ROI)- Better
Episode 1466: Europe oxo-alcohols, derivatives balanced to tight amid cautious sentiment
Europe’s oxo‑alcohols and derivatives supply is assessed as ranging from balanced to tight in May. Upstream volatility, ongoing Middle East tensions and cautious market sentiment continue to shape market dynamics.Spot price trends across the oxo‑alcohols chain are assessed as stable to softer in May compared with April, as weaker buying interest and cautious purchasing behaviour offset th
Episode 1465: Sustainably Speaking: Recycling markets face near-term strain despite long-term optimism
PRSE 2026 highlighted a fragile but cautiously optimistic recycling market, shaped by Middle East disruptions, weak demand, and regulatory uncertainty.Across mechanical, chemical and emerging sectors, investment and long-term targets persist, but near-term capacity, demand visibility, and policy clarity remain key challenges.Join ICIS recycling editors and analysts as they recap their con
Episode 1464: Think Tank: Strait of Hormuz closure disrupts global fertilizers, more risks to food as war persists
The closure of the Strait of Hormuz is having a severe and unprecedented effect on fertilizer supply because so much production is concentrated in the Middle East. - If war drags on, danger of two-tier food economy developing with lower tier suffering shortages- Poorer countries may be priced out of the fertilizer market- Food impact will be seen later this year
Episode 1463: Think Tank: Middle East war is worst crisis for chemicals since 1979
The Iran war and closure of the Strait of Hormuz has triggered the worst crisis in the Middle East since the 1979 oil crisis, according to regional chemical producer and distributor Servochem. - Dubai’s Jebel Ali port is within the Strait of Hormuz and is unable to export- Other ports in Oman and Saudi Arabia cannot handle large volumes, or very hazardous products-
Episode 1462: Think Tank: Iran war has spurred EU into action on industry competitiveness
As the war in the Middle East pushed up energy costs in Europe, politicians in Brussels have sprung into action on moves to improve chemical industry competitiveness.
Iran war pushed EU to accelerate moves on cutting energy costs
Now up to member states to implement cost cutting measures
Positive moves on Emissions Trading System (ETS)
Fast-tracking for anti-dumping duties (ADDs) is welco
Episode 1461: Sustainably Speaking: Challenges and uncertainty ahead of PRSE 2026
Join the ICIS European Recycling Team as they discuss the key topics and takeaways they hope to get from this year's Plastics Recycling Show Europe (PRSE) taking place in Amsterdam on 5-6 May. You can meet the Europe Recycling Team at the ICIS Booth in Hall 5, Stand F110, where you can scan a QR code to get access to the latest ICIS data on the recycling markets and learn more about ICIS
Episode 1460: PODCAST: Mideast conflict adds pressure as China’s polyolefins producers eye Southeast Asia
SINGAPORE (ICIS)-- China’s polyethylene (PE) producers are increasingly exploring Southeast Asia (SEA) as an export destination as domestic market fundamentals shift and pressure builds at home.China has traditionally not been a net exporter of PE, but weakening domestic demand and limited ability to clear material domestically are prompting producers to look overseas, with SEA increasing
Episode 1459: PODCAST: China’s aromatics end-industries demand slows amid rising raw material costs, Mideast conflict
SHANGHAI (ICIS)--Since the outbreak of the Middle East conflict in late February, attention has increasingly focused on its impact on energy and petrochemical markets. A steep rise in crude oil and naphtha prices has driven a rapid increase in prices across aromatics and their derivatives. According to ICIS data, as of 22 April, prices of downstream polymer products derived from aromatics
Episode 1458: Think Tank: As Iran war drags on, impact moves from base case to serious scenarios
With the Iran war now in its eighth week, we can expect more serious consequences for chemicals from rising inflation, demand destruction and a prolonged post-war recovery period. - 43 force majeures in Middle East and Asia, Europe prices hitting record highs- Sanctioned Russian and Iranian crude oil stored on ships is nearly depleted, exposing markets to greater shortag
Episode 1457: PODCAST: Europe oxo-alcohols and derivatives prices high but stabilizing in wake of US-Iran war
LONDON (ICIS)--Europe oxo-alcohols and derivatives markets have seen prices spike in the wake of the US-Iran war, although they have started to stablize through the month of April.With a challenging two months since the start of the US-Iran war pushing prices up dramatically and tightening the global supply chain, the European markets have been hit hard. However, there are some signs that
Episode 1456: Sustainably Speaking: Early action, enforcement needed for PET trays to meet PPWR - PETCORE Europe
In the latest episode of the ICIS Sustainably Speaking podcast, PETCORE Europe’s Jose‑Antonio Alarcón talks to Matt Tudball, ICIS Senior Editor, Recycling, why PET thermoform recycling remains significantly behind bottle recycling and what must change as the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) approaches. He outlines efforts to move from theory to real‑world compliance, i
Episode 1455: Middle East conflict tightens fertilizer supply, lifts prices and erodes demand
The Middle East conflict has affected fertilizer markets pushing prices up due to tight availability and leading to demand destruction in some regions.In this podcast, urea editor Deepika Thapliyal, sulphur editor Manuja Pandey, phosphates editor Chris Vlachopoulos, sulphuric acid editor Andy Hemphill and ammonia editor Sylvia Traganida discuss the latest market developments. · Urea
Episode 1454: Think Tank: Chemical industry needs more innovation despite geopolitical turmoil
Investment in innovation remains critical to the long-term competitiveness and sustainability of the chemical industry, despite the current geopolitical chaos and challenging macroeconomic environment.
Innovation is essential for differentiation, long‑term growth and sustainability, not just short‑term commercial success
Chemical companies must continue investing in R&D during uncerta
Episode 1453: PODCAST: Mideast conflicts reshape recent Asian C3 market, and what lies ahead?
Asian propylene (C3) supply has been shrinking with the ongoing shipping disruption through the Strait of Hormuz amid the US-Israel-Iran conflict. Supply tightness is expected to persist and support the market as feedstock availability and cost pressure remain key problems, weighing down regional plants’ operating rates. Downstream demand and end-use consumption, however, are facing great
Episode 1452: Think Tank: Middle East chemicals will take 12-18 months to return to normal
Even if the current shaky ceasefire becomes permanent, the complexities of repairing and restarting chemical plants means global markets will have to wait 12-18 months for regional operations to return to normal. - Restarting chemical plants is complex and requires external technical experts who will be in short supply- Plant restarts require huge amounts of energy, whic
Episode 1451: Global BD prices surge on Middle East supply disruption
LONDON (ICIS)--Butadiene prices have surged globally following Middle East supply disruptions linked to the US‑Iran conflict. Europe BD editor Melissa Hurley discusses the current market conditions and challenges facing the global market with editors Ai Teng Lim, Elaine Zhang and Senior BD analysts Gawaine Preston (Europe) and Ann Sun (Asia) and Preeti Sriram covering (US). Asia
Asian but
Episode 1450: PODCAST: Europe oxo-alcohols and derivatives markets see volatility spike as uncertainty grows on Middle East disruption
LONDON (ICIS)--Europe oxo-alcohols and derivatives markets are in significant flux as volatility spikes off the back of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and associated severe shipping disruption through the Strait of Hormuz. Supply constraints and rising costs are heavily impacting sentiment into late March with sellers pushing hard for price increases across the board.Glycol ether
Episode 1449: Think Tank: Stagflation fears grow as Gulf conflict starts to remap global chems flows
Surging inflationary pressures and dwindling economic growth expectations are pushing parts of the global economy towards the kind of stagflationary footing seen during the 1970s oil crisis, while supply shocks and feedstock surges are starting to remap chemicals flows once again. · European chemical markets have flipped from oversupply to tightness· Supply disruptions in Asi
Episode 1448: PODCAST: Asia ethylene price surge pressures PE, SM, PVC markets (part 2)
SINGAPORE (ICIS)--The ongoing US and Israel-led conflict in the Middle East has disrupted crucial flows of naphtha feedstock to cracker operators across Asia.With about 60% of Asia’s naphtha imports typically sourced from the Middle East, the region remains vulnerable to widespread cracker run‑rate cuts and temporary shutdowns, with the effect cascading through the ethylene (C2) value cha
Episode 1447: PODCAST: Asia C2 surge pressures PE, SM, PVC amid ongoing feedstock shortages (Part 1)
SINGAPORE (ICIS)--The ongoing Middle East conflict has disrupted crucial flows of naphtha feedstock to cracker operators across Asia. With about 60% of Asia’s naphtha imports typically sourced from the Middle East, the region remains vulnerable to widespread cracker run‑rate cuts and temporary shutdowns, with the effect cascading through the ethylene value chain.• Naphtha shortages force
Episode 1446: PODCAST: How Methanol Volatility Is Reshaping Asia’s Acetic Acid Market
In this episode of ICIS Chemical Connections, we unpack how geopolitical tensions have driven sharp divergence in methanol prices across Asia—and how that volatility is feeding through into the acetic acid market. We explore why China looks structurally different, where demand is failing to keep up outside China, and what this means for producers across the region.Key takeaways
Methanol
Episode 1445: Sustainably Speaking: Impact of Iran war on Europe's recycled polymers markets
Recycling Editors Sam Lovatt and Matt Tudball speak about the indirect impact the Middle East conflict is having on the recycled polymers markets in Europe, and why some markets such as recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET) and recycled low density polyethylene (rLDPE) are feeling the consequences much quicker than recycled high density polyethylene (rHDPE) and recycled polypropylene
Episode 1444: Think Tank: Europe much less reliant on Middle East for chemical feedstocks than Asia
Europe sources far less of its chemical feedstocks from the Middle East than Asia, meaning it is more insulated from the direct impact of the war. - Europe naphtha markets much less dependent on Middle East than Asia- Europe only gets 30% of its crude from the Middle East compared to 60% for Asia- Opening of INEOS Project ONE ethane-based cracker may force closu
Episode 1443: PODCAST: Global base oils outlook turns bullish in ME war aftermath
LONDON (ICIS)--The US-Israeli-led war against Iran has unleashed extreme volatility across chemical markets, with base oils prices rallying in the first half of March on the back of production woes, spikes in feedstock and shipping costs and supply chain disruption.The latest attacks are set to cripple the market as the hit on QatarEnergy's Pearl gas-to-liquids (GTL) facility is set to ke
Episode 1442: Think Tank: War proves vulnerability of global supply chains
With Asian chemical producers forced to cut operating rates through lack of Middle East feedstocks, it is time for industry leaders to move to a more regional business model.- Chemical industry has relied for decades on global supply chains- Asia crackers forced to cut operating rates as Middle East raw materials dry up- “Just in time” stocks need to be increase
Episode 1441: PODCAST: Europe ABS anti-dumping duties to shape shifts in Asia import market share
Europe acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) editor Stephanie Wix, Asia ABS Senior Editor Angeline Soh, and Senior Data Analyst Yolanda Chen discuss the impact of the recently confirmed definitive anti‑dumping duties (ADD's) on ABS imports from South Korea and Taiwan, with host Aviva Zhang, Global Lead for Styrenics and Industry Analyst for Styrene China.The team examines how the duties a
Episode 1440: PODCAST: Asia naphtha inventories deplete as US-Iran conflict chokes resupply
SINGAPORE (ICIS)--Asia's naphtha inventories are rapidly depleting as the ongoing Middle East conflict disrupts crude flows through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital chokepoint through which around 20% of global crude supply passes.With crude oil exports from the Middle East constrained, naphtha resupply to Asia has tightened sharply. Estimates suggest Asian petrochemical producers are holdin
Episode 1438: Sustainably Speaking: Insights from PRC 2026
The Plastics Recycling Conference has just wrapped up at the end of February in San Diego, California, here is some key insights from the event. Podcast hosted by Senior Analyst Corbin Olson, joined by analyst team lead Andrea Bassetti and analyst Joshua Dill. Key topics covered include: - Shifts in supply and demand for recycled plastics - Impacts of imported recycled plastics on the dom
Episode 1439: Think Tank: Energy, chemicals, fertilizers roiled by Middle East war
ICIS experts discuss the immediate and longer-term impact of the Middle East conflict with rising prices likely to fuel inflation, hurting downstream demand. - Crude oil spike cushioned by reserves, “wait and see” attitude- Duration of war is the key to impact on all commodities- Oil prices could spike to triple figures, trigger talks to reopen Strait of Hormuz-
Episode 1438: PODCAST: Asia oleochemicals rise amid Mideast conflict, despite weak buying
SINGAPORE (ICIS)--Although upstream crude palm oil (CPO) and palm kernel oil (PKO) costs have risen in Asia, oleochemicals buyers are adopting a cautious stance, having largely stocked up prior to the Chinese New Year in mid-February, and are not under pressure to lock in near term shipments.The overlying sentiment is one where the oleochemicals prices will be under upward pressure regard
Episode 1437: PODCAST: Asia base oils competition heightens amid growing capacities
SINGAPORE (ICIS) – Asia’s base oils market is in a period of adjustment, with narrowing light–heavy grade spreads, rising regional supply and evolving trade relationships reshaping sentiment. Heavy-grade premiums in Group II have sharply corrected, while upcoming turnarounds may lend short-term support to lighter grades. New capacities across Singapore, India and Saudi Arabia are set to h
Episode 1436: Europe oxo-alcohols, derivative markets shaped by supply dynamics, feedstock movements
LONDON (ICIS)--Europe’s oxo-alcohols and derivatives markets have largely been driven by supply factors and upstream movements, as underlying demand remains subdued on continued wider economic weakness and geopolitical tensions.Oxo-alcohols and butyl acetate reporter, Marion Boakye, joins acrylate esters editor, Mathew Jolin-Beech, and glycol ethers editor, Cameron Birch, to discuss curr
Episode 1435: Sustainably Speaking: EU Mass balance accounting under the SUPD and the future of chemical recycling
Join Mark Victory, Senior Editor, Recycling at ICIS as he asks Valentijn De Neve, CEO of BlueAlp and president of industry association Chemical Recycling Europe, and Egor Dementev, ICIS EMEA recycling analytics team lead about mass balance accounting and the future of the chemical recycling industry following the publishing of the Single Use Plastic Directive implementing act.Key topics
Episode 1434: Think Tank: UK chemicals needs serious state support as production collapses
The UK chemical industry needs more swift and powerful regulatory support to save it from further erosion as production falls by more than half compared to 2021 levels. - 25 UK chemicals closures since 2021, country now only has one cracker- Massive social impact of closures, often in deprived areas- UK no longer produces some critical chemicals- Lost U
