Chemical Industry News, Data & Insights

BASF Begins Production at Zhanjiang Verbund Site

Key highlights
  • BASF's Zhanjiang Verbund site is expected to be fully operational by the end of 2025.
  • The site includes a steam cracker with a capacity of 1 million metric tons of ethylene per year.
  • Total capital expenditures for the site are projected to be approximately €8.7 billion.
  • Construction is on schedule and below budget as of October 2025.

Project Overview

BASF has commenced production at its Zhanjiang Verbund site in South China, marking a significant milestone in its largest single investment project. The site is expected to be fully operational by the end of 2025.

Site Capabilities

The Zhanjiang Verbund site includes a steam cracker with a capacity of 1 million metric tons of ethylene per year, along with several downstream plants to produce petrochemicals, intermediates, and other products.

Investment and Construction

The total capital expenditures for the site are projected to be approximately €8.7 billion. Construction is on schedule and below budget as of October 2025.

Strategic Importance

The new capacities will enhance BASF's ability to meet growing market demand in China and the Asia Pacific region, supporting its local-for-local production strategy and sustainable growth objectives.