Americas top stories: weekly summary

HOUSTON (ICIS)–Here are the top stories from ICIS News from the week ended 3 January.

OUTLOOK ’25: US acetic acid, VAM exports expected stronger, domestic demand could rise
US acetic acid and vinyl acetate monomer (VAM) supply heading into 2025 is improving after production outages resolved, while tight global supply is expected to boost export demand and lower inflation may lead to stronger domestic demand.

OUTLOOK ’25: US EG/EO demand expected higher in 2025; turnarounds to tighten Q1 supply
Demand for US ethylene glycol (EG) and ethylene oxide (EO) should increase in 2025 on restocking and if lower inflation drives consumption, but this may be met with tight supply in Q1 due to plant maintenance.

OUTLOOK ’25: US President Trump could move quickly on tariffs, deregulation
As US president, Donald Trump could quickly proceed on campaign promises to impose tariffs and cut regulations after taking office on 20 January.

SHIPPING: Union dockworkers, ports to resume negotiations ahead of 15 Jan deadline
Union dockworkers and representatives for US Gulf and East Coast ports are expected to resume negotiations on a new master contract on 7 January, just more than a week ahead of the 15 January deadline.

OUTLOOK ’25: US methanol supply expected tight in Q1, demand may pick up mid-year
US methanol supply is tight heading into the new year, a situation that has been offset by lackluster demand, but demand is expected to pick up farther into 2025 if more controlled inflation and lower interest rates fuel consumer spending and the housing market.