Recent developments
Capacity realignments
ExxonMobil’s closure of the Fife Ethylene Plant cuts 830,000 t/y of ethylene and heightens risk for NGL off‑take and import pipelines amid EU/UK cracker shutdowns. Countering this, INEOS announced a €250 million investment to modernize its cracker at Lavera. Integration advanced with Kazakhstan’s Tengiz Gas Separation Complex to supply ethane for polyethylene and with TotalEnergies to acquire a 50% operated interest in block OPL257 for an Egina tie‑back.
Efficiency and digitalization
China emphasized operational efficiency: Zhenhai Refining & Chemical and Maoming Petrochemical were named energy‑efficiency leaders for ethylene, while several refineries were recognized for water performance. Sinopec units also secured recognition among exemplary intelligent factory projects, spanning high‑sulfur gas, collaborative refining control, and hydrogen optimization.
Process innovations
Clariant and Linde’s EDHOX Technology integrates ethane oxidation to produce polymer‑grade ethylene and acetic acid at sub‑400°C with lower direct CO2 and retrofit potential; Clariant also advanced Cr(VI)‑free hydrogenation via HySat. Value‑chain decarbonization options expanded as BASF added ISCC EU certification to biomass‑balanced methanol for RED III compliance and drop‑in use.
Corporate strategy shifts
ORLEN Group reported strong Q3 results alongside upstream additions in Norway, a commissioning HVO unit, and new renewables supporting refinery power. In France, the French Competition Authority fined TotalEnergies over Corsica depot access clauses; the company will appeal and review local marketing.
Logistics and policy
Sinopec will pilot a smart, green, and economical modern petrochemical supply chain logistics system to cut logistics costs and raise service reliability. Strategic alignment themes were reinforced at the Sinopec Industry High-quality Development Forum, focusing on transition, smart upgrades, and new materials planning.