The annual growth rate of polyurethane production in South America is expected to reach 4.6%, and the output in 2016 will reach 906,500 tons. Production in South America has resumed since 2010 and has been growing. The total production in 2011 was 725,300 tons.
According to the survey, in South America, soft foam is the largest market for polyurethane, accounting for 58% of the market and an annual growth rate of 4.5%. With the gradual establishment of new soft foam factories in Latin America, such as Peru and Paraguay, the competition in this field has become increasingly fierce. However, some special foams, such as those containing flame retardants, are not very demanding in South America, because South America is still one of the most traditional regions in the world, and innovative technology applications are lagging behind.
The survey also showed that people's awareness of energy conservation has become stronger and stronger, inspired by strict legislation, which has greatly increased the demand for polyurethane insulation systems. However, some prices have advantages, and the building insulation materials that can be easily purchased are still the enemy of polyurethane insulation materials. Supported by the construction sector, the growth rate of hard foam is expected to be around 5.1%. Because retail stores and shopping malls have higher requirements for insulation materials, polyurethane insulation materials are generally chosen.。
The elastomer market is one of the slowest developments in the downstream sector of polyurethanes. Although the market for slurry is subject to higher price constraints, it has also increased in applications in Colombia's OEM projects, and the use of the Chilean construction industry has increased since the 2011 earthquake. The South American market has relatively little demand for adhesives and molds. The polyurethane adhesive market is highly competitive。
So far, Brazil has the largest polyurethane production in South American countries. Brazil is one of the fastest growing economies in the world, with an average annual GDP growth of more than 5%. In addition, the 2014 World Cup and the 2016 Olympic Games will also stimulate market demand.。