Basell strikes major deal in Kazakhstan

Basell has signed up with two partners to take part in a world-scale ethane-fed petrochemicals and plastics complex in western Kazakhstan. The project also involves KazMunayGaz Exploration & Production and SAT & Company and is scheduled to start up in four years. Downstream of the cracker, the complex will include both polyethylene and polypropylene facilities using Basell’s own technology.

In addition to holding a stake in the new enterprise, Basell will also provide technology, sales and marketing services. Basell chief executive Volker Trautz said: “When operational in 2010, this facility will establish a new benchmark for the polyolefins industry.” The North Caspian town of Atyrau, where the new petrochemicals complex is to be built, is described as “the oil capital of Kazakhstan”.