The former Brenntag CEO believes the chemical industry can overcome current challenges once it takes some more bold steps.

- Industry emerged stronger from previous crises and can do so again

- Nascent recovery stifled by tariff war

- Overcapacity is hurting industry everywhere

- Europe closures mean distributors may adjust sourcing

- Distribution industry is ripe for more consolidation

- Leaders need a strong vision to attract the best talent

- Private equity, state-funded bodies could buy assets, create national champions

In this ICIS Think Tank podcast, Will Beacham interviews Christian Kohlpaintner, former CEO of Brenntag.

European phthalic anhydride (PA) reporter Gabrielle Jordan and plasticizers reporter Marion Boakye discuss current market conditions ahead of the European Petrochemical Association (EPCA) annual meeting, taking place 22–25 September in Berlin, Germany.

Both markets are set to remain under pressure through 2025, with sellers facing headwinds from competitive import flows, ample domestic supply, and muted demand.

A meaningful rebound in consumption appears unlikely, as ongoing economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, and fragile global trade continue to weigh on major downstream sectors, particularly automotive and construction.

Topics discussed include:

• Supply-demand dynamics
• Short-term outlooks
• Key themes ahead of EPCA

Podcast by Marion Boakye and Gabrielle Jordan

In an increasingly unstable world, chemicals executives need to be aware of the important issues which are likely to steer the global economy, and markets, for the rest of 2025.

• President Trump’s tariff trade war
• Russia’s war with Ukraine
• China’s property bubble
• Potential for another Asian financial crisis
• Crude oil market convulsions

In this ICIS Think Tank podcast, Will Beacham interviews Paul Hodges, chairman of New Normal Consulting.