This report provides a comparison of the cost of producing representative polyolefins from several different olefins sources with the aim of showing the costs of alternative sources of ethylene and propylene compare with mainstream, conventional costs.

LLDPE production technologies have been reviewed. Process economics on a USGC, China and Middle East basis have been developed for conventional and metallocene/single site LLDPE resins. Regional supply/demand is included.

Analysis and forecast of the annual profitability of the Middle East petrochemical industry.

Regional round-up of industry developments, regional pricing analysis, and capacity expansions are provided. Discussion on Europe, managing uncertainty in turbulent markets is included.