In this episode, James Wilson, an ICIS analyst focused on global chemical market forecasts, Tom Brown, Insight Editor and European chemicals commentator, and Paul Hodges, Chairman of New Normal Consulting, explore the increasing protectionism in Europe as the chemical industry anticipates a significant downturn by 2028. They discuss the urgent need for capacity closures to balance oversupply, particularly in ethylene and propylene, and the implications of China's rapid production growth on global markets. The geopolitical landscape and potential trade barriers emerge as critical factors in shaping the future of the industry.
