Recent developments
Energy supply shifts
To diversify procurement, Uniper concluded long-term gas supply contracts with OMV Petrom SA, Tourmaline, ConocoPhillips, and Woodside. Security and transition infrastructure advanced as Gasunie completed the hydrogen network in the Rotterdam port area. The European Commission’s Clean Energy Investment Strategy targets lower import dependence and financing mobilization. LNG markets tightened when QatarEnergy declared Force Majeure. Producers sought flexibility, with Aramco progressing gas capacity projects and start-ups at Jafurah and Tanajib.
Crude routes tested
MOL Group and JANAF agreed to conduct long-term capacity tests on the Adria pipeline. A 10-month series of capacity tests will assess end‑to‑end Croatian crude logistics under monitored conditions. In parallel, MOL and Slovnaft filed a complaint against JANAF for monopoly abuse, citing access and pricing during Druzhba disruptions. Regional refining efficiency improved as KT‑Kinetics Technology completed the Rijeka Refinery Upgrade Project, adding delayed coking and utility upgrades.
Localization and materials
Infineum opened a new blending facility in India, strengthening local supply and expansion options. BASF expanded dispersion production in Durban and added an application lab for regional technical support. Supply-base localization advanced as Aramco’s iktva program achieved 70% localization. Upstream resilience featured in the EIB–Canada plan to enhance cooperation on critical raw materials. Advanced ceramics capacity is set to scale after UBE invested in CheomdanLab Inc.
Portfolios and finances
CABB finalized the sale of Jayhawk Fine Chemicals to Anupam Rasayan, reweighting toward pharma and life science specialties. Ercros warned that Bondalti’s takeover bid could disrupt its 3D Plan while continuing a cost reduction and revenue increase plan (CRP). Veolia reported progress under its GreenUp plan, alongside US waste and water technology acquisitions. SPIE’s 2025 annual results and Brenntag’s preliminary financial results emphasized cash generation and balance-sheet strength. PETRONAS’ capital investments amounted to RM41.6 billion, sustaining upstream project delivery amid softer prices. Symrise’s ONE SYM Transformation program progressed on efficiency and digitalization.
Technology and policy
Evonik introduced the Chlorocel 909 chloride adsorbent, targeting longer run lengths and reduced waste in reformer guard beds. The proposed Industrial Accelerator Act would streamline permitting and embed “Made in EU” and low‑carbon criteria in procurement across strategic sectors, including chemicals. Uniper’s hydrogen‑ready CCGT plans align with the EC’s Strategy for Small Modular Reactors, broadening future low‑carbon baseload options relevant to chemical site power security.