MOSCOW (MRC) -- Over the six months, Russian producers made about 450 KT of HDPE which was 8% more compared to the same period last year, according to MRC analysts. In June, Russian producers HDPE increased output to 79.35 KT.
This year Russian producers work almost at 100% capacities utilization, excluding Gazprom neftehim Salavat. Also there are no technical problems that could affect production parameters.
Despite positive production parameters this year, low demand for HDPE is observed in the domestic market. By mid-year considerable stocks of polyethylene had accumulated in stores of producers as well as trade companies.
Nevertheless, Russian producers don't hurry to increase exports, instead, they reduce it. Over the six months, HDPE exports form Russia reached 38 KT while last year this parameter made about 70 KT.
A serious period for the Russian market of HDPE will be September-October. For these two months shutdowns are planned by all PE producers. The first to suspend HDPE capacities for 30 days from September 7, will be Kazanorgsyntez. In early October, Stavrolen production complex will be suspended for 45 days. Also in early October, but only for 10 days Nizhnekamskneftehim will stop PE production. And in mid-October for three weeks Gazprom neftehim Salavat will suspend production.
MRC analysts don't exclude that planned shutdowns of Russian HDPE producers will result in deficit of some grades.