Imports of polypropylene (PP) in Kazakhstan grew 14% in first nine months of this year, compared to the same period of 2020. PP exports increased more significantly by 49%, reported MRC analysts. Overall PP imports into the country exceeded 33,700 tonnes in the first nine months of the year, compared to 29,600 tonnes a year earlier. Stable operation of the local producer during this period allowed for an increase export sales of PP. September PP shipments to Kazakhstan grew to 4,600 tonnes from 4,500 tonnes a month earlier, local converters increased their purchasing of pipe copolymer propylene in South Korea. September imports of homopolymer PP and propylene copolymers increased to 3,800 tonnes and 800 tonnes, respectively, versus over 3,900 tonnes and 600 tonnes a month earlier, local companies significantly increased their PP purchases from South Korea.
Overall imports of homopolymer PP and propylene copolymers reached 24,200 tonnes and 9,500 tonnes, respectively, in January-September 2021, compared to 24,000 tonnes and 5,600 tonnes a year earlier. Kazakhstan's PP exports over the first nine months increased to 25,700 tonnes, whereas this figure was 17,300 tonnes a year earlier. About 93% of total exports accounted for Russia. September exports of PP from Kazakhstan increased to 6,000 tonnes against 3,100 tonnes in August.