The global demand for thermoplastics is expected to grow by around 100,000 tons by 2015, driven by the developing economies. Polyethylene comprises 35% of this market and polypropylene is 24%, according to leading market consultant Noru Tsalic of Applied Market Information (AMI). This is an annual increase of 5.6%.

Dow is expected to claim US$2.5 bln in compensation for a scrapped joint venture in Kuwait. However, the compensation is subject to the verdict of the court, which is currently reviewing whether the Gulf state has breached the contract or not. On December 1, 2008, Dow Chemical and Petrochemical Industries Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC), signed a US$17.4 bln Joint Venture Formation Agreement regarding the formation of K-Dow Petrochemicals, a 50:50 joint venture, which was touted to emerge as the leading global supplier of petrochemicals and plastics