Welcome to this Methanol Market Puts-and-Takes podcast episode, part of the Chemical Conversations series.

In this episode, Senior Analyst Cassidy Staggers speaks with Alex Dӧll, the newly appointed CEO of the Methanol Institute, to discuss:

• Alex Dӧll’s background and strategic vision for the Methanol Institute and its global initiatives

• Key takeaways from the Argus Methanol Forum

• Updates and trends in the gray methanol market

• Methanol's advancement in marine fuels, plastics, and SAF striving toward sustainability and decarbonization

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In the lead-up to K, the world’s largest plastics and rubber event, our limited podcast series, ‘K-show plastics preview’, features Argus experts discussing the latest market developments across key polymer and feedstock sectors. From pricing trends and policy shifts to regional supply dynamics, the series offers timely insights to help industry participants stay informed and ahead of the curve.

In this episode, James Elliott, VP of Business Development, is joined by Sam Hashmi, Global Editor Polymers, for an in-depth discussion on the evolving US–Europe polyolefins trade relationship and the impact of tariffs on the European market.

Key topics discussed:

• What the latest import duty proposals could mean for market confidence and pricing.

• Why European producers are watching US polyethylene imports, and what’s next for polypropylene.

• Outlook for demand as the industry heads into K-Show and beyond.

The podcast discusses the launch and market reception of the new Norwegian crude grade, Johan Karsberg, highlighting its unique production setup, high-quality characteristics, and pricing dynamics. Despite logistical challenges and premium pricing, the grade is gaining traction among Northwest European refiners due to its favorable refining properties.

Three main topics:

• Introduction and significance of Johan Karsberg crude: A rare standalone field in the Barents Sea, marking a notable expansion in Norway’s oil production.
• Crude quality and market reception: Karsberg is slightly heavier but low in sulphur, with high yields of valuable distillates, making it attractive to European refiners.
• Trading logistics and pricing: The grade trades at a premium and is limited to local markets due to shuttle tanker constraints and higher transport costs.