Aromatics outlook for 2016: what to expect

As we approach the end of 2015, the attention of market participants is increasingly focused on the outlook for next year. 2015 brought turbulence to many markets, but also introduced a great deal of inequity among aromatics producers. While markets like paraxylene and phenol struggled, styrene producers made record profits in 2015. Cumene producers managed effectively in 2015 as well, with increased imports into China and gasoline blending in the US offering a welcome reprieve. This insight looks to add clarity to the immediate outlook for 2016, and highlight areas that will change from what we've seen in 2015.