Market insiders note that as Europe’s market influence weakens, global chemical trade flows are tilting toward emerging Asian markets, with Asia (especially the Middle East) solidifying its status as a top chemical export hub. This trend could drive Europe to switch from a net exporter to a net importer of chemicals in the long run.
Europe’s chemical market is in a sustained downturn. Stefan Schnabel of Germany’s Helm AG points out that Europe’s shrinking income-generating workforce and outflow of consumer spending have weakened local demand, benefiting surplus-producing regions like the Middle East and East Asia. Udo Lange of Denmark’s Stolt-Nielsen adds that Europe’s chemical industry is seeing capital outflow, domestic plant closures, and minimal new local investments—with short-term capital return unlikely. He predicts Europe will focus more on specialty chemicals and phase out basic chemicals production.
Post time: Jan-06-2026