Insight
European olefins production: could 2020 top 2019 despite coronavirus?
*Please note that this report only includes an Excel data file if this is indicated in "What's included" below
Report summary
Europe saw 20-year lows in olefins production in 2019. Despite potential demand destruction from coronavirus, 2020 could show a recovery in production, as turnaround schedules lighten, and competitive naphtha prices make Europe’s cracker fleet becomes more competitive. This insight will examine four key drivers to understand the direction of 2020 production - outages, cash costs, trade and the coronavirus. Read on to understand the key drivers in more detail.
Table of contents
- European olefins production in the rear-view mirror
- 1) Outage activity in 2020 less than half 2019 – boosts production
- 2) Naphtha comes back as a competitive feedstock – boosts production
- 3) Lower feedstock costs allowing competitive exports and reducing imports – boosts production
- 4) Economic shock and uncertain demand for olefins – lowers production
- Conclusions
Tables and charts
This report includes the following images and tables:
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Year-on-year percentage change in total European olefins productionEuropean ethylene capacity lost from planned and unplanned outage activityAverage European naphtha prices in Euros per tonNet European olefins (ethylene and propylene) trade
What's included
This report contains:
