Middle East Geopolitical Conflict Drives Up Costs, Demand for High-End Polyolefin Elastomers Rises Against the Trend

March 17, 2026 — The ongoing geopolitical conflict in the Middle East is reshaping the market landscape of the plastic and chemical industry.

Cost Pass-Through and Domestic Substitution

Polyolefin prices rose significantly. High-end elastomer materials saw improved price spreads.

Strong Demand from Downstream

Demand for POE/POP/OBC is rising rather than falling.