Japanese Economy Taking Hit

Japan, who has been prone to deficit for nearly 30 years is experiencing its first deficit indicating the economy trouble wave is rippling towards Japan. Japan posted a trade deficit of Y725.3bn in fiscal 2008. However, the government of Japan is confident that the economy is in its state for a rebound especially in the indsutrial production and exports. The petrochemical industry in the country is yet to see a clear signs of rebound and the industry is now in wait and see situation.

Petchem Overcapacities Expected

Petchem industry is feeling the pinch as industrial analysts are worrying on overcapacities including Bayer CEO in the recent interview. The financial crisis has turned the chemical and plastics industry into a huge overcapacities at least for 2009 and 2010 petrochemical outlook.

The mostly hit industry is plastics and polymers business used in the auto industry which is not building a huge industry overcapacities and inventories. Bayer CEO also predicted that growth in Bayer's pharmaceuticals and crop chemicals businesses to be much affected in 2009.