World ethylene demand to cross 160 mln tons by 2015

02-Mar-10

Global capacity of ethylene is projected to be approximately 142 mln tons by 2010. Middle East and Asia are all set to emerge as the world's largest ethylene producing regions. Key to increasing capacities is the availability of low cost raw materials. World ethylene demand is expected to cross 160 mln tons by 2015 as per Global Industry Analysts. Asia-Pacific, Europe and North America represent major consumers of ethylene, accounting for a share of over 87% of the global ethylene market. Polyethylene represents the largest end-use market for ethylene. Global consumption of ethylene in the production of polyethylene is estimated at 65.8 mln tons. Consumption of ethylene in the United States is expected to be around 26.8 mln tons by 2010. Ethylene consumption in Asia-Pacific is expected to grow at a compounded annual rate of 6.1% over the period 2001-2010. Germany represents the single largest European market for ethylene, accounting for a share of close to 19%.