VINACHEM

Several 2025 year-end reports and data releases paint a nuanced picture of the global chemical process industries (CPI) as we head into 2026. The complex picture reflects the diversity of industry sectors comprising the CPI, and the wide range of factors influencing CPI operations and end-use markets. Parsing the available data and comparing recent analyst insight, several themes emerge that will help to shape CPI operations and influence market conditions in 2026 and beyond. 

2025 has been a year of uncertainty for the chemical industry. At the beginning of the year, companies were nervously anticipating the arrival of US president Donald Trump’s tariffs in April, but a year on, the situation regarding tariffs continues to change and still the daily uncertainty remains, with significant impacts on supply chains. 

To continuously improve environmental management, limit the use of chemicals for treating acid leakages from cast iron pipe systems, and enhance production efficiency while saving electricity, Southern Fertilizer Joint Stock Company has approved investment in upgrading heat exchange materials and cooling methods. 

Viet Nam’s total trade volume in 2025 is estimated to reach a record high of US$920 billion, placing the country among the world’s top 15 trading nations. 

Việt Nam’s trade is poised to hit a new record this year, underscoring the country’s growing role in global markets but also exposing persistent structural weaknesses that could weigh on long-term sustainability, experts said at a conference on Tuesday. 

Korea Zinc will start the project by acquiring two mining complexes and the only US zinc smelter, which is in Tennessee.