Dow still hoping for 2011 startup: Environmental standards defended

01-Feb-10

Despite facing suspension after a recent court order, Dow’s Thai unit planned in Map Ta Phut, remains optimistic that its second-phase chemical plant can begin operating in 2011 as scheduled. Dow Chemical Thailand Co has four projects, part of a total US$3 bln petrochemical investment. About 50% of the work had been concluded till the rulling by the Administrative Court. The Court ruled that 76 industrial ventures (later reduced to 64) be suspended, until they receive clarification of environmental and health impact regulations. All of the projects are joint ventures with the Siam Cement Group (SCG), which has been Dow's long-time partner since it began investing in Thailand. SCG, one of the most heavily affected businesses in the Map Ta Phut case, has filed requests with the court to proceed with some projects, arguing that their environmental impact assessment (EIA) reports were approved prior to the enactment of the 2007 Constitution.