The companies said that the agreements will also be formalized for the supply of naphtha and basic petrochemicals between Braskem and Pemex.
At the end of 2009, Braskem and Idesa had won the auction held by Pemex Gas e Petroquimica Basica for the acquisition of 66,000 barrels/day of ethane, which will be used as feedstock at the petrochemical complex to be built in Coatzacoalcos, in the Mexican state of Veracruz. The raw material supply agreement is valid for 20 years.
The project involves the production of 1 million tons/day of ethylene and polyethylenes at three polymerization plans, with operational startup expected in 2015. The initiative should provide significant stimulus for substituting the polyethylene Mexico currently imports, which currently is worth approximately $2bn/year, the companies said.
Braskem and Idesa will hold interests in the joint-venture structure adopted for the project of 65% and 35%, respectively. To leverage the project’s competitiveness, the partnership will take maximum advantage of the strengths and experiences of both companies. A strategic minority interest by Pemex in the project as partner is still being analyzed.
The companies added that the Ethylene XXI project represents the reactivation of Mexico’s petrochemical industry, an opportunity for adding value to hydrocarbons and the development of human capital and the manufacturing industry.
Another agreement that will also be signed that will assure the supply by Braskem of the basic petrochemical products propylene and butene to Pemex. The agreement, which is valid for one year, provides for the supply of 34,000 tons of these products.
An agreement for the sale of 375,000 tons of naphtha by Pemex to Braskem is also being settled. The formalization of these agreements should also help further strengthen trade relations between Mexico and Brazil.
