2025-08-25 14:36Summary of Key Points from Conference Call Records Industry Overview - The global refining and olefins industry is expected to see a decline in refining margins after reaching a peak around 2030, influenced by geopolitical factors, carbon taxes, and the transition to renewable energy. Approximately 1.5 million tons per day of refining capacity has been announced for closure or conversion, with China accounting for 50% of this capacity [1][5][34]. - By 2035, about 22% of global refining capacity (18.4 million barrels per day) is at risk of closure, primarily concentrated in Europe and the Middle East. National Oil Companies (NOCs) are less inclined to close facilities due to government support, while International Oil Companies (IOCs) are more likely to close or sell unprofitable refineries [1][7][8]. Olefins Market Dynamics - Since 2020, global ethylene investment has been predominantly led by China, with private companies like Longsheng and Hengli entering the market significantly. From 2025 to 2028, major state-owned companies like PetroChina and Sinopec are expected to lead investments, shifting focus towards increasing petrochemical production [1][11][12]. - Approximately 40%-50% of global ethylene assets are currently at a loss or breakeven, indicating that the industry is at a cyclical low. China has seen a surge in new refining projects since 2017, leading to global oversupply, while Europe faces significant pressure due to high energy prices and carbon tax issues [1][14][15]. Regional Insights - In the U.S., a refinery in the PAD3 region with a capacity of 290,000 barrels per day has announced closure and will transition to hydrogen production by 2025. Other refineries are also shifting towards renewable fuel production [6][25]. - In Europe, the refining landscape is undergoing structural adjustments, with several companies announcing closures or asset sales to adapt to economic and environmental challenges. By 2028, European ethylene capacity is expected to decrease by 12% compared to 2024 [23][24]. Future Projections - The global refining industry is projected to peak in demand for crude oil and chemical products around 2030 or 2031, after which refining profits and utilization rates will gradually decline. This trend is expected to lead to more local refineries exiting the market, particularly in China and Europe [34][36]. - The ethylene market's future will largely depend on investment levels and the rate of capacity elimination. While the pace of new projects may slow, it does not imply cancellations, especially for large enterprises. Economic recovery in China is expected to significantly impact demand for petrochemical products [36][28]. Risk Assessment - Approximately 63 million tons of global ethylene capacity is at risk of closure, representing 27% of the total capacity by 2025. High and medium-risk capacities are primarily concentrated in Asia and Europe, with North America and Russia having lower closure rates [18][19]. - In China, around 11 million tons of ethylene capacity is at risk of closure in the next five years, with significant portions being high-risk. The government is tightening approvals for new ethylene projects, which is expected to alleviate pressure on domestic refining companies [21][19]. Conclusion - The refining and olefins industries are facing significant transformations driven by market dynamics, regulatory changes, and geopolitical factors. The future landscape will be shaped by capacity adjustments, investment trends, and the ongoing transition towards more sustainable energy sources.