The PVC producer Kem One announced on 31 November that it would suspend the chlorine and caustic soda production in France. As the company sees no signs of demand recovery in the short term, the PVC maker will stop a significant part of its chlorine and caustic soda capacity on 10 November 2023. ‘We anticipate that this shutdown will last at least several months, but this reduced operation will, nevertheless, ensure production is aimed at maintaining our commitment to our partner customers,’ a company official said. Kem One has declined to comment on the PVC manufacture, but it will definitely be affected.

The company has adjusted utilisation of its chlorine and caustic soda units in recent months, cutting it almost in half, because of the global economic situation and a depressed construction sector. ‘This is having a strong impact on our markets, leading to weak demand for both chlorine-derived products and caustic soda,' the company’s press release stated.

According to market players, several other producers have either reduced PVC production or shut some of their units, but this information is unconfirmed so far. However, there will hardly be a lack of K67 this year, Chem-Courier believes. Demand will stay tepid in the region at least until the year end. The more affordable imported materials are plentiful on the market. However, if a PVC facility goes offline for maintenance in the United States or the Middle East, an acute shortage will arise in Europe in mid-January 2024 only if demand strengthens.