Chemicals, Olefins, Polymers
March 19, 2026
INFOGRAPHIC: Middle East war disrupts polymer feedstock supplies
Editor:
HIGHLIGHTS
Region holds 15% of global PE capacity
India prices surge 43% since start of war
Buyers face delays from Hormuz disruptions
The Middle East war has disrupted the supply of polymers to key export destinations, while the introduction of war risk premia on cargoes and a near-halt in vessel movements through the Strait of Hormuz have led to a global spike in freight rates.
The region holds around 15% of global polyethylene capacity, while its share of global polypropylene capacity is 9%.
On March 14, Iranian authorities published a list of Middle East petrochemical facilities, among other sites, that could be targeted in retaliation for US strikes. The list includes approximately 32% of the regions' olefin supply, 42% of polyethylene capacity and 40% of polypropylene capacity.
