A polyethylene plant in Kazakhstan, currently under construction by Silleno, is set to become a hub for petrochemical development. This was announced by Pavel Lyakhovich, Executive Director and Board Member of Sibur, during a press tour for Kazakh journalists to Moscow and Tobolsk.

Source: Rupec

Preparatory work for the plant began in September 2024 within the "National Industrial Petrochemical Technopark" Special Economic Zone in the Atyrau Region. The facility will have an annual capacity of 1.25 million tonnes. According to Sibur, the Kazakh market currently consumes approximately 190,000 tonnes of polyethylene annually. The finished products are planned for export to markets including China, Turkey, Europe, and Southeast Asia. The project represents a $7.4 billion investment.

A representative from Sibur highlighted the importance of synchronising the plant's timeline with related infrastructure projects, such as the gas separation unit, ethane pipeline, and the expansion of Karabatan Utility Solutions' second phase.

The plant’s construction is expected to be completed by 2029. Once operational, it will replace imported polyethylene with locally produced materials and boost exports of high-value products. Silleno plans to produce up to 22 grades of polyethylene, 40% of which will be premium grades. The project also includes a comprehensive workforce development strategy, with some future employees being recruited in Tomsk from among Kazakh students. These students will have opportunities to gain practical experience at Tomskneftekhim.

The project is being implemented by Silleno, whose shareholders include NC KazMunayGas (40%), Sinopec Overseas Investment Holding (30%), and Sibur Holding (30%).