Maleic anhydride makers focus on looming European onslaught. (1997 and beyond)

Chemical Market Reporter, January, 1997 by Brand, Tony

Doubts emerge that all three projects will proceed. MALEIC ANHYDRIDE producers are beginning to question the feasibility of three 50,000-metric-ton-plus expansions in Europe over the next two years, and one project may be in jeopardy. However, even with additional capacity waiting in the wings, MA prices are on the rise worldwide due to skyrocketing feedstock butane costs and snugness in the market.

"Certainly all of the projects can't be built," one US producer says. "Someone better be willing to back down or there will be quite a bloodbath over the next two years." Sisas Group, Lonza SpA and a joint venture between Huntsman Corporation and Condea Chemie are all planning to add significant maleic anhydride capacity to the European market over...

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