Increased growth demand for ethylene and propylene predicted

09-Jan-06

Global demand for ethylene and propylene slowed in 2005, with ethylene demand growth recorded at 3.1%, down from a typical growth rate of 4-5% pa and propylene demand growth recorded at about 4.1% in 2005, lower than typical growth rates of 5% pa. In 2005, global demand for ethylene and propylene grew to 10 7 million tons and 67.1 million tons, respectively. During 2005- 10, demand growth for ethylene is estimated to increase to about 4.3% pa and demand growth for propylene is estimated to rise to 4.8% pa. To keep pace with this demand growth, ethylene production capacity will grow at 5.4% pa during 2005-10, an increase from the 2000-05 rate of 3.5% pa and propylene capacity will increase 5.1% pa during 2005-10, a rise from the 2000-05 rate of 4.1% pa By 2010, global ethylene supplies will reach 133 million tons. Most of the new capacity additions will be in Asia (36%) and the Middle East (51%).