KIEV: Total imports of polypropylene (PP) into Ukraine increased to 119,600 tonnes in 2016, up 24% compared to 2015, with the greatest increase in imports occurring for PP random copolymers, according to MRC DataScope.
December PP imports into the country remained practically at the level of November and reached about 11,000 tonnes. In general, January – December PP imports into the country increased to 119,600 tonnes against 96,200 tonnes year on year. The greatest increase in external deliveries occurred for PP random copolymers, also significantly increased imports of homopolymer PP.
December imports of homopolymer PP into the Ukrainian market decreased to 7,700 tonnes, while a month earlier this figure was 8,700 tonnes. Local companies reduced the volume of purchases of homopolymer PP raffia. Last year’s homopolymer PP imports exceeded 90,900 tonnes, compared to 73,800 tonnes a year earlier.
December imports of PP block copolymers into the country increased to 1,300 tonnes, compared with 1,100 tonnes in November. Local companies slightly increased in the volume of imports of injection moulding PP block copolymers. Imports of PP block copolymers into the country were about 12,500 tonnes in January-December, compared with about 10,400 tonnes year on year. The main increase in demand accounted for local pipe producers.
December imports of PP random copolymers into Ukraine increased to 1,700 tonnes, compared with 735 tonnes in November; local converters significantly increased their imports of injection moulding grades. Total imports of PP random copolymers into Ukraine exceeded 13,600 tonnes in January-December, compared with 9,500 tonnes year on year. The demand in the sector of injection moulding and pressure pipes has improved.