ADI Analytics has released its 2026 global chemicals outlook, mapping out the top trends set to define the industry this year. In this brief update, Uday Turaga, CEO of ADI Analytics, shares critical insights on demand trajectories, capacity surpluses, and why strategic portfolio pruning is driving massive new M&A activity.
Key Highlights
- Uneven demand growth: Global chemical demand is projected to grow just 2% this year, lagging behind global GDP as the economy tilts toward services over goods.
- Persistent supply gluts: Massive capacity surpluses remain a major headwind, led by China adding another 7 to 8 million tons of ethylene cracker capacity in 2026.
- Accelerating portfolio pruning: Major chemical players are aggressively selling non-core assets to protect margins, highlighted by SABIC’s massive European divestments.
Watch the full video below to see where chemical markets are heading, and subscribe to ADI Plus for exclusive access to our complete global chemicals outlook.
About ADI Analytics
ADI is a prestigious, boutique consulting firm specializing in oil and gas, energy, and chemicals since 2009. We bring deep expertise in a broad range of markets where we support Fortune 500, mid-sized and early-stage companies, and investors with consulting services, research reports, and data and analytics, with the goal of delivering actionable outcomes to help our clients achieve tangible results.
We also host the ADI Forum that brings c-suite executives together for meaningful dialogue and strategic insights across the oil & gas, energy transition, and chemicals value chains. Learn more about the ADI Forum.
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