MOSCOW: Overall imports of linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) into the Russian market decreased by 12% in 2015, totaling 191,000 tonnes, according to MRC DataScope report on Friday.
Lower imports were caused by both the growth of the domestic production, particularly from Nizhnekamskneftekhim, and weaker demand in certain processing sectors.
December LLDPE imports into the Russian market rose to 16,300 tonnes from 15,100 tonnes a month earlier, local stretch films producers accounted for the increase in supply. The structure of LLDPE imports by consumption sectors looked the following way over the stated period.
Last month’s imports of film grade LLDPE grew to 14,400 tonnes from 12,700 tonnes a month earlier. A few major stretch film producers accounted for the main increase in imports. Overall imports of film grade LLDPE were 161,500 tonnes in 2015 versus 188,900 tonnes a year earlier.
December imports of LLDPE for the production of large items by rotational moulding fell to 158 tonnes due to seasonal factors from 564 tonnes in November. In general, demand for this PE grade turned out to be significantly lower over the stated period than last year: 9,100 tonnes in 2015 versus 10,800 tonnes a year earlier. Asian producers are the main suppliers of this PE grade.
Last month’s imports of LLDPE into the other consumption sectors (cable extrusion, lamination of paper, moulding, etc.) remained at the level of November, totalling 1,800 tonnes. Overall imports increased to 20,400 tonnes in 2015 versus 17,400 tonnes a year earlier.
