ICIS - chemical podcasts

Épisodes

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  Episode 1496: Middle East crisis threatens shortages, higher prices and inflation 16.09.2026 24min

  The spread of conflict across the Middle East threatens another period of extreme market volatility, as players face up to increasing disruption with strategic reserves much lower than at the start of the conflict. • Seizure of the port of Mokha and Perim Island in the Bab Al-Mandeb Strait, threatens the closure a second key Gulf trade route• Global diesel supply critically short with Russian and Gulf refineries severely impaired• The magnitude of closed-off crude supplies and constrained oil product availability increases the risk of a 1973-74-style fuel crisis• Higher prices, tighter supply adds fuel to inflation, which could skyrocket over the next 12 months• Weaker US polyethylene margins and a slide back to negative margins in northeast Asia point to limited pricing power and weak demand • Inflation and energy costs could further hit consumer demand as northern hemispheric winter approachesWe also mark the passing of friend and contributor John Richardson. If listeners have memories of John they would like to share please get in touch at [email protected]
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  Episode 1495: Think Tank: Rising gas prices will squeeze Europe chemicals, fertilizers 08.09.2026 23min

  Europe’s increasing reliance on LNG leaves chemical producers exposed to winter price and supply shocks as the Middle East war drags on.Europe has become more reliant on LNG since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 Russian gas market share has dropped sharply from up to 40% to below 10% Strait of Hormuz closure has removed major Qatari LNG, representing 20% of global supply European storage at record low levels in percentage terms ICIS TTF prices increasingly reflect geopolitical risk premiums Winter supply risks will rise if cold weather hits Asia competition with Europe for US LNG depends on spot price spreads Chemicals face renewed energy and feedstock cost pressure Fertiliser margins remain highly exposed to gas prices, possible closuresIn this ICIS Think Tank podcast, Will Beacham interviews Ed Cox, global LNG editor at ICIS. 
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  Episode 1494: Europe oxo-alcohols, derivatives seasonally subdued amid Rhine logistics constraints 26.08.2026 9min

  The summer lull continued to limit spot business across Europe's oxo-alcohols and derivatives markets, while Rhine water levels fell to exceptionally low levels through much of August, disrupting logistics and restricting barge traffic. Although recent rainfall has provided some relief, Rhine logistics remain a key uncertainty as market participants turn their attention to the traditional late August-September restocking period.Oxo-alcohols and butyl acetate reporter, Marion Boakye,  joins acrylate esters editor, Mathew Jolin-Beech, and glycol ethers editor, Cameron Birch, to discuss current conditions along the oxo-alcohols value chain.
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  Episode 1493: PODCAST: How the US-Iran conflict is reshaping India's PE, PP markets (part two) 26.08.2026 9min

  SINGAPORE (ICIS)--India's dependence on polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) imports from the Middle East has made the country vulnerable to disruptions stemming from the ongoing US-Iran conflict.In this podcast, ICIS market specialist Aswin Kondapally discusses feedstock constraints on domestic production, how China has helped bridge supply gaps, and the shifting priorities of buyers navigating logistical uncertainty.This is part two of a two-part series.PP imports from China surged to 45% in early 2026, supplementing SEA cargoes amid Mideast disruptionsBuyers prioritize shipment reliability over price amid logistics delays, freight uncertaintyBuyers hesitate to place new orders amid delays of previously booked cargoes
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  Episode 1492: PODCAST: How the US-Iran conflict is reshaping India's PE, PP markets (part one) 26.08.2026 10min

  SINGAPORE (ICIS)--India's dependence on polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) imports from the Middle East has made the country vulnerable to disruptions stemming from the ongoing US-Iran conflict.In this podcast, ICIS market specialist Aswin Kondapally discusses feedstock constraints on domestic production, how China has helped bridge supply gaps, and the shifting priorities of buyers navigating logistical uncertainty. This is part one of a two-part series. PP imports from China surged to 45% in early 2026, supplementing SEA cargoes amid Mideast disruptionsBuyers prioritize shipment reliability over price amid logistics delays, freight uncertaintyBuyers hesitate to place new orders amid delays of previously booked cargoes
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  Episode 1491: PODCAST: China's styrene export position strengthens; FOB China assessment gains support 25.08.2026 5min

  SINGAPORE (ICIS)--China's rapid expansion of styrene monomer (SM) capacity has transformed the country into an increasingly important exporter. By mid-2024, China's export volumes had overtaken imports, prompting ICIS to launch its FOB China SM assessment in August 2024. China became a net exporter in 2025, and growing liquidity has since increased the relevance of the FOB China benchmark.In this podcast, Senior Editor Luffy Wu reviews the progress of ICIS' SM FOB China daily assessment since its launch two years ago and looks ahead to some of the improvements and plans in the pipeline to better serve the market.China becomes net exporter in 2025 amid capacity growthJan-Jul exports hit 860,000 tonnes, filling supply gaps left by Mideast suppliersFOB China quote attracts rising attention, but CFR China conventions persist
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  Episode 1490: Think Tank: China slowdown deepens chemicals market pressure 11.08.2026 15min

  China's economic downturn and expanding chemicals capacity continue to challenge global producers.China manufacturing and services contract, according to latest purchasing manager indices (PMIs)Property crisis remains an important dragAgeing population weakens domestic demandLimited stimulus constrains economic recoveryExports remain strong despite slowdownTrade barriers circumvented through third countriesChemical capacity additions remain substantial, totalling 77 million tonnes in 2026 and more in 2027Efficient mega-sites in China outcompete global rivalsMore closures expected outside ChinaRelief may emerge after 2030 as tough China environmental rules stifle more chemicals expansions In this ICIS Think Tank podcast, Will Beacham interviews ICIS director, market insights and executive engagement, John Richardson.
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  Episode 1489: EU, US epoxy markets faced a volatile H1, skittish geopolitics casts shadow over H2 07.08.2026 19min

  A complex tariff landscape, geopolitical instability in the Middle East, upstream volatility and demand struggles are key talking points in the Europe and US epoxy markets.In this podcast, Heidi Finch, who covers the Europe epoxy market, and fellow senior editor Tarun Raizada, who covers the US epoxy market, recap on what has been a very volatile and challenging H1, in particular due to unsettled US-Iran geopolitics and discuss possible expectations for the H2. . In the US, higher feedstock costs, reduced Asian imports, due to the ME war, along with tariffs supported prices in H1, while demand remained largely flat. Europe prices surged during Q2, due to the ME induced war cost impacts and more domestic sourcing due to import supply chain jitters, although demand remained lowGeopolitical uncertainty makes for a hazy H2 for both regions, managing headwinds the focus, no recovery in sight
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  Episode 1488: Think Tank: War boosts Q2 chemicals but risks mount for rest of year 04.08.2026 30min

  After a strong Q2, chemical companies face an uncertain second half beset by weak demand, potential feedstock shortages and River Rhine disruption.-          European chemical profits rose sharply in Q2-          Producers upgrade full-year earnings forecasts-          Q2 gains driven by conflict-led pricing, margins-          Demand weak across key sectors-          Little momentum seen after Q2 uplift-          Outlook clouded by geopolitical uncertainty-          Rhine drought threatens logistics and supply-          More force majeures possible in Europe
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  Episode 1487: PODCAST: Asia PET resin market faces margin pressure, export challenges amid feedstock volatility 30.07.2026 6min

  SINGAPORE (ICIS)--Asia PET resin prices have been shaped by volatile feedstock costs, while producer margins have narrowed to around breakeven levels. In this ICIS podcast, Senior Analyst Jimmy Zhang and Senior Editor Judith Wang discuss the impact of the US-Iran conflict on feedstock markets, the challenges facing Asia PET resin exports, and the outlook for the regional market.Upstream values remain a key driver of petrochemical price directionLimited vessel availability, high freight costs constrain Asia PET resin exportsICIS remains cautiously optimistic on PET resin supply-demand fundamentals
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  Episode 1486: Think Tank: War brings new risks for gas supply, especially for Europe and Asia 28.07.2026 33min

  The Middle East conflict is disrupting global gas markets, with increased risks for Europe and Asia gas supply security.European storage levels below last yearGermany faces particularly low inventoriesMiddle East disruption limits LNG availabilityEurope competing with Asia for cargoesGas prices likely to remain elevatedDemand destruction may soften impact of low storage levelsLNG market outlook shifts from surplus to deficitChemical companies urged to plan for rising energy insecurityDiesel and petroleum increasingly short globallyRisk that US may place export ban on energy products, diesel and petroleum 
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  Episode 1485: China PE Market Outlook for H2 2026: Navigating a Wave of Supply Growth 24.07.2026 10min

  In the latest ICIS podcast, analysts Haiyan, Joanne and Amy discuss the outlook for China’s PE market in H2 2026. The team explores how expanding supply, changing trade flows and demand uncertainties could shape the market in the months ahead.
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  Episode 1485: China PE Market Outlook for H2 2026: Navigating a Wave of Supply Growth 24.07.2026 10min

  In the latest ICIS podcast, analysts Haiyan, Joanne and Amy discuss the outlook for China’s PE market in H2 2026. The team explores how expanding supply, changing trade flows and demand uncertainties could shape the market in the months ahead.
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  Episode 1484: Think Tank: Renewed Middle East conflict deepens chemical market uncertainty 21.07.2026 25min

  Escalating Middle East tensions and weak consumer demand are creating new risks for global energy and chemical markets.Oil prices rise towards $90/barrelStrait of Hormuz disruption hits energy flows againBab el Mandeb Strait blockade risk grows, threatening access to the Red Sea and Suez CanalEuropean gas stocks remain vulnerableRhine low water disrupts logisticsChemical supply chains face pressure in EuropeDemand weakness limits market reaction Smartphone sales fall sharplyRising costs drive demand destructionIn this ICIS Think Tank podcast, Will Beacham interviews ICIS Insight Editor Tom Brown and Paul Hodges, chairman of New Normal Consulting. 
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  Episode 1483: PODCAST: Oxo-alcohols and derivatives seeing summer slowdown btu uncertainty ahead for H2 2026 20.07.2026 11min

  As we enter H2 2026, there is plenty happening in the market – although on the surface, much like a swan, things may appear relatively calm. Underneath, lots happening and moving, shaping the markets for the rest of the year.Acrylate esters editor Mat Jolin-Beech is joined by glycol ethers editor Cameron Birch and oxo-alcohols and butac editor Marion Boakye to discuss the market.
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  Episode 1482: Think Tank: Hormuz tensions bring renewed threats to oil and chemical markets 14.07.2026 31min

  Renewed US-Iran tensions and Russian refinery disruptions are raising concerns over energy supplies, inflation and chemical market demand.• Prolonged disruption could trigger a major supply shock• Russian refinery outages are tightening fuel product supplies• Chemical markets remain cautious despite rising crude prices• Higher energy costs could fuel inflation and demand weakness• Global oil inventories and reserves continue to decline• China’s slowdown is weighing on petrochemical demand• Chemical buyers are delaying purchases amid uncertainty• Demand destruction may limit chemical price increases• Companies should strengthen resilience against market shocksIn this Think Tank podcast, Will Beacham interviews ICIS Insight Editor Tom Brown and Paul Hodges, chairman of New Normal Consulting.
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  Episode 1481: Think Tank: Europe more exposed as China ramps up exports, Suez Canal reopens 08.07.2026 26min

  Europe’s chemical industry will become increasingly exposed to competition from China, the Middle East and the rest of Asia if more shippers return to the Suez Canal.Maersk, Hapag-LLoyd reopen one Gemini service through the Suez CanalChina becomes increasingly self-sufficiency in chemicalsSwitches from net importer to exporter for some important productsGrowth of chemicals post-2030 could be focussed in megasites with low carbon production linked to CCS/U (carbon capture and storage/utilization)US ethane prices have fallen, giving US producers more of a competitive advantageIntroduction of US-EU trade deal will see tariffs on many US chemical imports fall from 6.5% to zeroNote – this podcast was recorded on 7 July, 2026In this ICIS Think Tank podcast, Will Beacham interviews ICIS senior consultant John Richardson and ICIS Insight Editor Tom Brown.
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  Episode 1480: PODCAST: Global BD prices tumble as markets shift from supply fears to demand concerns 07.07.2026 13min

  LONDON (ICIS)-- Butadiene (BD) prices have tumbled globally from highs after a volatile second quarter, as markets continue to adjust to the fallout from the US-Iran conflictIn this episode, ICIS Europe BD editor Melissa Hurley discusses the latest market developments and outlook with Ai Teng Lim (Asia), Elaine Zhang (China), and senior BD analysts Gawaine Preston (Europe) and Ann Sun (Asia).CFR northeast Asia BD prices have fallen significantly from March peak levels as expected supply shock failed to materialise; heavier-than-expected downstream demand losses seenChina market also experienced rapid price decline; H2 focus shifts from supply recovery to demand absorption: "The key question is no longer whether supply recovers — it's whether demand can absorb it." - Senior BD Analyst Ann Sun Asia and China remain the key balancing markets, expected to absorb surplus BD exports from Europe and the USPrices may face further near-term weakness before stabilising, while the timing of new Asian capacity additions remains the biggest uncertainty for the marketUS July BD contracts also lower on improved supply and weaker global pricingFocus podcast by Ai Teng Lim, Elaine Zhang, Gawaine Preston, Ann Sun and Melissa Hurley. Additional reporting by Preeti Sriram.
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  Episode 1479: Think Tank: The story of a Lebanese chemical distributor 01.07.2026 15min

  Running a chemical distribution company in a conflict zone such as Lebanon requires determination and agility to keep the business running while ensuring the safety of employees. -          High levels of stress but a resolve to adapt to conflict conditions -          Very difficult operating environment with displaced population-          Maintaining stock levels is a key challenge-          Hazardous material moved to a warehouse out of Beirut and away from other high-risk zones -          Back-up office created to allow work to continue during times of high conflict-          Less transport by sea through port of Beirut and more via land crossings to Syria-          Impossible to get insurance coverage for logistics in conflict zones-          Shift of commercial terms to cash in advance before delivery-          Banking system has become very primitiveIn this Think Tank podcast, Will Beacham interviews Dany Njeim, CEO of RN Chemicals, based in Lebanon and Italy and Paul Hodges, chairman of New Normal Consulting. 
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  Episode 1478: PODCAST: Phenol & Acetone Derivatives: Volatility, Supply Shifts and a Fragile Q3 Outlook 29.06.2026 29min

  LONDON (ICIS)--A turbulent Q2 saw the phenol and acetone value chain rocked by geopolitical disruption, cost inflation and shifting supply-demand dynamics, with prices surging before easing as markets rebalanced.In this Q2 episode of the Acetone and Derivatives podcast, ICIS experts unpack the key drivers across phenol, acetone, BPA, epoxy and polycarbonate, and explore a cautious, uncertain outlook for Q3 amid weak demand, ample supply and ongoing global volatility.MMA markets editor Mathew Jolin-Beech is joined by Acetone and phenol editor Jane Gibson, Heidi Finch senior editor for the European BPA and epoxy resins, Sam Lovatt on PC, and Michele Bossi - analyst for the chain.