Recent developments
Corporate moves and projects
OCI Global advanced portfolio changes: sale of its ammonia distribution and terminal business to AGROFERT (EUR 290m), agreement to merge with Orascom Construction, and the Beaumont New Ammonia project nearing startup after a cost increase to ~USD 1.7bn. European nitrogen sales volumes fell 24% on maintenance; improved H2 performance indicated, alongside a September distribution.
Dutch industry roadmap
An industry coalition presented a bid book to the new Dutch cabinet seeking a level playing field, faster power infrastructure, lower electricity costs, and hydrogen production and storage to keep investment viable. Nobian notes Delfzijl’s 15% share of Dutch basic chemicals and a 140 MW electrolyzer in Rotterdam to support industrial decarbonization.
Salt supply assurance
Approval to extend salt mining activities in Heiligerlee, Groningen, until 2035 secures high‑purity salt supply to Delfzijl and Rotterdam for chlorine and caustic soda production. Additional permit conditions require studies on cavern closure and updated long‑term subsidence forecasts.
Cracker modernization in France
INEOS announced an investment to modernize its cracker at Lavera, France, totaling €250 million with French Government support. The program targets reliability, efficiency, and emissions, while the company cites high energy and carbon costs; later phases depend on further state support.
Asian performance pressures
LOTTE Chemical reported provisional consolidated sales of KRW 4.7861 trillion and an operating loss of KRW 132.6 billion in Q3 2025. Basic Chemicals remained loss‑making despite some margin recovery; Fine Chemical and Advanced Materials were profitable, while Energy Materials posted losses amid customer adjustments.