日本乙烯设备利用率连续下滑

Core Viewpoint - Japan's ethylene production facilities have been operating at low utilization rates, with January's rate at 75.8%, marking 42 consecutive months below the 90% threshold, indicating ongoing industry challenges [1] Industry Summary - In January, Japan's ethylene production was 433,700 tons, a year-on-year decrease of 6.9%, partly due to planned maintenance of a production unit that did not occur in the same month last year [1] - The low utilization rates are attributed to increased ethylene production across Asia, leading to prolonged underperformance of domestic facilities [1] - Industry discussions are ongoing regarding the consolidation of existing facilities to optimize production capacity [1] Company Summary - Mitsubishi Chemical Group and Asahi Kasei announced plans to close a joint venture plant in Okayama Prefecture by the fiscal year 2030, integrating operations into Mitsui Chemicals' facility in Osaka Prefecture [1] - Japanese chemical companies plan to close four production lines nationwide by the fiscal year 2030, resulting in a 30% reduction in capacity to 4.4 million tons [1]