ICIS - chemical podcasts
This podcast is brought to you by ICIS, a leading global price discovery service for the oil, energy, fertilizer and petrochemical sectors.
Episodes
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
Episode 1433: Europe ACN, ammonia markets grapple with CBAM uncertainty and uneven fundamentals
LONDON (ICIS)--European ammonia and acrylonitrile (ACN) players are facing supply and demand challenges while regulatory changes, including the recently enforced carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM), are further complicating the market picture. In this podcast, European ACN editor Nicole Simpson speaks to global ammonia editor Sylvia Tranganida about the likely outlook for the market
Episode 1432: Sustainably Speaking: Key takeaways from PETCORE Europe 2026 Annual Conference
Matt Tudball, Senior Editor, Recycling talks to Carolina Perujo Holland, Senior Analyst Plastics Recycling for EMEA, and Salmon Aidan Lee, Principle for Recycled and Virgin Polyesters in Asia about their highlights from the 2026 PETCORE Europe Annual Conference. The event took place on 5-6 February in Rome, with a packed audience covering both the polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and recy
Episode 1431: Think Tank: New Antwerp meeting flags need for immediate action to save Europe chemicals
EU and industry leaders meet in Belgium to call for urgent action to stop and reverse the erosion of the region’s industrial value chains. - New Antwerp meeting of industry leaders and EU leaders aims to speed up moves to save chemicals and other heavy industry- Industry is in crisis and action is required right now to stop further deindustrialisation - EU must
Episode 1430: PODCAST: Europe acetone and phenol value chain facing challenging start to 2026
LONDON (ICIS)--Europe’s phenol, acetone and derivatives markets have entered 2026 under pressure, with weak demand and rising costs shaping the markets.Jane Gibson covering the Acetone and phenol editor Jane Gibson is joined by Mat Jolin-Beech covering MMA, Heidi Finch senior editor covering the European BPA and epoxy resins, Sam Lovatt covering PC and Michele Bossi - analyst for the chai
Episode 1429: Sustainably Speaking - EU chemical recycling regulation and mass balance approach
Join Egor Dementev, ICIS EMEA recycling analytics team lead, as he asks Valentijn De Neve, CEO of BlueAlp and President of industry association Chemical Recycling Europe, and ICIS senior editor recycling Mark Victory about Chemical recycling regulation following the passing of the implementing act on mass balance accounting under the Single Use Plastic Directive, and the future of the ind
Episode 1428: Think Tank: Light at the end of the tunnel for economy, but Europe chemicals still in crisis
Improving sentiment in manufacturing, especially in the US, raises hopes of a turning point, but industry needs strong action to save it, especially in Europe. - Big jump in US purchasing manager indices (PMIs) with Europe and China moving in the right direction- New report by Roland Berger highlights Europe’s chemicals crisis- Rising costs, poor demand, continu
Episode 1427: PODCAST: Supply-led pressure looms for global oleochemicals
LONDON (ICIS)--A mix of regulatory changes, feedstock volatility and global economic factors is transforming the global oleochemicals market.In this latest podcast, senior editors Helen Yan, Eashani Chavda and Lucas Hall and joins markets editor Nazif Nazmul to share the latest developments and expectations ahead of the Palm and Lauric Oils Conference (POC) being held in Kuala Lumpur, Mal
Episode 1426: PODCAST China PE Tug-of-War Geopolitics vs. Overcapacity
Is China’s polyethylene market heading for a crash or a recovery? In the latest ICIS podcast, senior industry analyst Joanne Wang sits down with Amy Yu , Asian PE lead from Analytical team to dive into the "tug-of-war" defining 2026. Together, they break down how the 6.2 million-tonne capacity surge is clashing with sudden price shocks caused by Middle East tensions.
Episode 1425: Think Tank: Europe distributors battle tough conditions, adapt to geopolitical turmoil
Europe’s chemical distributors’ margins are under pressure as geopolitics roils the global economy, but they are also flexing to new business models for future growth.- Cost inflation impacting margins for distributors – logistics, energy, labor, working capital - Tougher to pass price increases to customers- Intense competition from cheap imports into Europe-
Episode 1424: Sustainably Speaking: Understanding the nuances of PPWR
Join Egor Dementev, lead of the ICIS EMEA Recycling Analytics team as he asks Director General of the German Plastics Packaging Association, Martin Engelmann and ICIS Senior Editor, Recycling, Mark Victory about the nuances of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), and why companies need to take action well ahead of the 2030 targets.Key topics covered include:
No political
Episode 1423: PODCAST: Europe oxo-alcohols and derivatives markets face sluggish start to 2026
LONDON (ICIS)--Europe oxo-alcohols and derivatives markets have seen a subdued start to 2026.With a challenging 2025 now behind us, and the New Year underway, there were hopes of restocking and improvements in demand, as well as overall market conditions.Acrylate esters editor Mathew Jolin-Beech speaks to oxo-alcohols and butyl acetate editor Marion Boakye and glycol ethers editor Cameron
Episode 1422: Podcast: ACN trade flow restructuring ongoing amid China overcapacity, policy changes
SINGAPORE (ICIS) -- China's domestic acrylonitrile (ACN) prices fell to over five-year lows early this year. Overcapacity, weak demand and sustained margin pressure loomed over the value chain, encouraging players to rebalance. In this chemical podcast, Asia ACN editors Seymour Chenxia and Corey Chew take a look at recent China and broader Asian ACN market movements, discuss the short-ter
Episode 1421: PODCAST: Europe, US Epoxy markets struggle to find momentum, amid trade tensions and muted demand
LONDON (ICIS)--Sluggish demand, a complex tariff landscape and geopolitical instability 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 share insights on tariff uncertainty, ongoing demand and margin concerns in a troubled climate.
Tariff and trad
Episode 1421: Think Tank: More tariff, geopolitical chaos show that chemicals need new strategies
The whip shaw over tariffs relating to the Greenland dispute highlights the need for chemical companies to plan for a world of rising geopolitical instability. · Trump’s tariff swings deepen uncertainty for global chemical trade· EU–US deal stalls, exposing fragile trade negotiation structures· Davos leaders warn of weakening global institutions and alliances·
Episode 1420: Think Tank: chronic oversupply will push crude oil prices below $60/barrel in 2026
Despite widespread geopolitical instability around the world, the most severe period of crude oil oversupply ever will depress prices, latest ICIS forecasts show. - For 2026 global oil markets are in the largest period of oversupply we have ever seen- Oversupply forecast by ICIS at 3 million barrels/day out of a roughly 100 million barrels/day market- China oi
Episode 1419: Think Tank: EU chemicals regulatory reforms risk being too little, too late
BARCELONA (ICIS)--EU leaders seem to recognize the need for action to reverse deindustrialization, but it risks being too little, too late for chemicals.
EU chemicals regulation needs ambitious reform, not tinkering at the edges
Chemical companies continue to close operations in Europe, partly driven by regulatory costs
Expect a review of Reach regulation and “one substance one assessment
Episode 1418: PODCAST: Europe oxo-alcohols and derivatives markets focus on destocking into year end
LONDON (ICIS)--Europe oxo-alcohols and derivatives markets have seen a subdued level of activity in December amid ample supply across derivative markets and sluggish demand.For 2026, many remain sceptical surrounding the prospect of demand recovery tied in part to the potential of infrastructure spending and any resolution to ongoing geopolitical issues.Glycol ethers editor Cameron Birch
Episode 1417: Sustainably Speaking: Examining Europe's recycling sector - Part 2
In the second of a two-part Sustainably Speaking podcast special, Helen McGeough, ICIS Global Analyst Team Lead for Plastics Recycling talks to long-standing veterans of the European recycling industry about the current state of the market and steps for the future.In Part 2, Helen is joined by Bernard Merkx who has an extensive background in the recycling industry and is the former Presid
Episode 1416: Think Tank: Middle East chemicals search beyond 2030 for new growth opportunities
With the prospect of global overcapacity easing from around 2030, Middle East petrochemical players are debating how to monetise their plentiful natural gas supplies.
Middle East producers plan a major new capacity wave after 2030,
Long‑term strategy centres on monetising hydrocarbons beyond 2030
China’s overcapacity cycle may ease by around 2030,
Debate about staying focused on simple
Episode 1415: Sustainably Speaking: Examining Europe's recycling sector - Part 1
In the first of a two-part Sustainably Speaking podcast special, Helen McGeough, ICIS Global Analyst Team Lead for Plastics Recycling talks to long-standing veterans of the European recycling industry about the current state of the market and steps for the future.In Part 1, Helen speaks to Dr Michael Scriba about the current downturn in Europe's recycling sector and discusses topics such
Episode 1414: Think Tank: Signs of more protectionist approach as global chemicals slide towards a 2028 trough, Europe and Asia fight for survival
Remarks by French president Emmanuel Macron suggest a tougher approach to protecting Europe as global chemicals move towards a 2028 bottom of cycle. - Ethylene, propylene capacity additions to accelerate, peak in 2027 - 2028 bottom of the cycle, project delays could push this out to 2029- 2000-2028 almost 75% of global capacity additions for key building blocks
Episode 1413: PODCAST: Asian BD prices on the rise, for long?
Asian spot prices for butadiene (BD) are rebounding, after a prolonged period of declines, as supply tightens on various unplanned grounds, but the supply losses may be minimised if China exports rise. Join ICIS Asian BD editors Elaine Zhang and Ai Teng Lim, as well as Senior Analyst Ann Sun, as they discuss current Asian BD market developments and a near term outlook.
Episode 1412: Think Tank: Trump’s trade war is driving new business models for chemicals
Since the US Liberation Day, chemical prices and margins have plummeted, while tariffs are also accelerating the end of existing globalised business models of trade. - Tariffs are altering decades of globalized trade patterns, pushing economies toward protectionism- Chemical prices and volumes have plummeted since Liberation Day on 2 April- Export-oriented busin
Episode 1411: Think Tank: Use scenario planning to estimate China's future impact on chemicals
China has a huge impact on the global chemical industry in terms of supply and demand so analysis of future demographic and economic trends is important for business leaders. - Huge variation in forecasts for changes in population- Chemicals demand growth scenario planning is vital- Must take into account China’s success in technology and exports- Deman
Episode 1410: Europe oxo-alcohols, derivatives sluggish amid year-end inventory management
LONDON (ICIS)--Europe’s oxo-alcohols and derivatives markets remain structurally weak, as participants keep inventories lean or actively destock, further reducing spot market activity.Market participants are now prioritizing inventory management and 2026 contract talks, with fundamentals expected to remain largely unchanged through year-end.Oxo-alcohols and butyl acetate reporter, Marion
Episode 1409: Think Tank: ExxonMobil Scotland closure highlights need for new strategies to save Europe petrochemicals
The decision by ExxonMobil to close its ethane cracker in Scotland shows there is a need for faster action by lawmakers across Europe and more innovative thinking to safeguard the region’s chemical industry. - ExxonMobil to close its 830,000 tonnes/year, ethane-fed Fife Ethylene Plant - Questions over availability of North Sea ethane to feed the plant- Around
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