ICIS - chemical podcasts

Industry leaders should concentrate on cash, security of raw materials and trends which will drive chemicals demand as tough conditions continue in Europe.- Preserve cash, keeping debt under control in this tough environment- Focus on securing feedstocks amid upstream closures- Identify consumer trends, future customer needs- Tentative signs of improvement for Europe’s economy- Expect more closures across the region- Oxford Economics forecasts return to growth from mid-2026- Southern Europe ports may get busier as more imports flow from Middle East, Asia- Sustainability has to be about affordability- Market talk of some aviation fuel buyers opting to pay a fine for undershooting sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) mandates due to the cheapness of conventional fuels

Christian Kohlpaintner, former CEO of Brenntag, shares his decades of experience in the chemical industry. He discusses the importance of bold steps to overcome current challenges and emphasizes that the industry can emerge stronger from crises. Kohlpaintner highlights issues like tariff wars and overcapacity impacting competitiveness and distribution. He advocates for consolidation in the distribution sector and the need for visionary leadership to attract talent. Additionally, he touches on the potential for private equity to create national champions in Europe.

European phthalic anhydride (PA) reporter Gabrielle Jordan and plasticizers reporter Marion Boakye discuss current market conditions ahead of the European Petrochemical Association (EPCA) annual meeting, taking place 22–25 September in Berlin, Germany.Both markets are set to remain under pressure through 2025, with sellers facing headwinds from competitive import flows, ample domestic supply, and muted demand.A meaningful rebound in consumption appears unlikely, as ongoing economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, and fragile global trade continue to weigh on major downstream sectors, particularly automotive and construction.Topics discussed include: Supply-demand dynamics Short-term outlooks Key themes ahead of EPCA Podcast by Marion Boakye and Gabrielle Jordan

In an increasingly unstable world, chemicals executives need to be aware of the important issues which are likely to steer the global economy, and markets, for the rest of 2025. President Trump’s tariff trade war Russia’s war with Ukraine China’s property bubble Potential for another Asian financial crisis Crude oil market convulsions In this ICIS Think Tank podcast, Will Beacham interviews Paul Hodges, chairman of New Normal Consulting.

The phosphates market has seen some activity recently, with China resuming phosphates exports and import demand from Ethiopia and Bangladesh. However, affordability remains an issue for the market, especially in India.Meanwhile, ammonia availability continues to remain tight globally with planned and unplanned shutdowns.Senior editors Chris Vlachopoulos and Sylvia Traganida discuss the latest developments in the markets and the short-term outlook.

Join Emily Friedman, ICIS US recycled plastics senior editor in Episode 5 of Sustainably Speaking alongside Arianne Perez, Asia recycled plastic senior editor, and Joshua Dill, Americas recycled plastic analyst, as they discuss the implications of weak domestic recycled polyethylene terephthalate (R-PET) markets between the US and Asia. Even as local feedstock markets tumble, both regions are seeing further downwards pressure from global trade.Some questions answered during this episode: What is the current state of US and Asian R-PET markets? Are dropping US prices influencing Asian markets? How has the evolving tariff policy impacted US R-PET and PET imports via the 3907 HS code? What is the end of year outlook for US and Asian R-PET markets considering the weak environment at present?

Activity in the European oxo-alcohols and derivatives markets has slowed significantly in August, largely due to summer holidays and economic strains. Despite ample supply, demand remains weak, leading to slight price declines. Experts discuss the competitive pressures from Chinese imports and the strategic inventory maneuvers companies are employing. Additionally, recent tariff changes on US industrial goods entering the EU could reshape local production dynamics, while currency fluctuations add another layer of complexity to the market.

Join Eleanor Manley, an AI entrepreneur and consultant, Sebastian Rau, director of advanced analytics for ICIS, and Carlos Soares, senior VP for data, analytics & AI at Brenntag, as they navigate the transformative potential of AI in the chemical industry. They delve into how AI can enhance sales, marketing, and supply chain operations while emphasizing the necessity of human oversight. The discussion covers the challenges of integrating AI, the importance of clean data, and the ethical implications of automation, advocating for a balance between technology and human insight.

LONDON (ICIS)--A mix of regulatory changes, market fundamentals and global economic factors is transforming the Asian biodiesel and glycerine markets.In this latest podcast, Asia biodiesel editor Evangeline Cheung and glycerine senior editor Helen Yan joins their Europe counterpart Nazif Nazmul to share the latest developments and expectations for what lies ahead. Firm palm oil fundamentals and regulatory support strengthen biodiesel market despite mixed demand Recent drop in glycerine spot prices linked to a slump in China's epichlorohydrin (ECH) market Market awaits further clarification on EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), impact on US tariff-led oleochemical trade follow Biodiesel, which can be derived from vegetable oils, animal fats and other waste-based bio-feedstocks, is used as fuel in diesel engines.Glycerine is mainly used in personal and oral care products such as skincare creams, toothpaste and mouthwash. It is also used in food products, either as glycerine directly or one of its derivatives such as glycerol monostearate.

Paul Hodges, Chairman of New Normal Consulting, shares his expertise on the chemical industry and global economy. He discusses how political factors are reshaping global trade, leading to disruptions in supply chains. Hodges highlights the implications of demographic shifts and the impact of aging populations on market demands. The conversation reveals concerns about the ongoing petrochemical downturn and overcapacity, suggesting that the current down-cycle in the chemicals sector could continue for years to come.