Russia embarks on petchems push
Moscow sets ambitious targets to capitalise on feedstock abundance
Russia has lagged behind other oil and gas producers in developing its petrochemical industry, despite its formidable oil and gas resources, commanding only a 1pc share of global petchems supply. This is set to change, though, as Russia's largest firms prepare to launch a raft of new projects over the next few years, aiming to capitalise on the sector's projected rapid demand growth. Eager to provide the economy with a greater downstream hedge against volatile crude and gas prices, Moscow is also planning new measures to spur development, with a target of doubling production to around 20mn t/yr by 2030. The centre piece in Russia's petchems drive is ZapSibNefteKhim, a $9.5bn project slated t
Also in this section
22 January 2026
As Saudi Arabia pushes mining as a new pillar of its economy, Saudi Aramco is positioning itself at the intersection of hydrocarbons, minerals and industrial policy
22 January 2026
New long-term deal is latest addition to country’s rapidly evolving supply portfolio as it eyes role as regional gas hub
21 January 2026
Petroleum Economist takes a look at the critical developments that look set to govern the course of the market for this year
20 January 2026
The ripple effects of US refiners switching to Venezuela grades will be felt from Canada to China and everywhere in between
