We have more exports and more imports on both sides of the border. That reflects specialized production, with product shipped from one site, rather than having a range of products at many sites. The growth benefited from the White Springs Agricultural Chemicals phosphate operation in Florida, purchased from Occidental Chemical in the fourth quarter of 1995. PCS anticipates increased prices in the non-North American diammonium phosphate market, firm pricing in liquid phosphates, and improved potash shipments. Nova Chemicals had net income plummet in the fourth quarter of 1995.
Nova blames lower styrene prices and higher crude-oil feedstock costs for the declines in income.
But styrene nd polystyrene prices are expected to remain flat because of capacity coming on-line in early 1997 and soft demand in Asia. Polyethylene prices strengthened and volumes rose in the third quarter from the second quarter. Prices may decline moderately, but strong market demand should provide stability into 1997. In August, CCPA updated its 1994 study of the competitiveness of Canada's business climate for the chemical industry. The report is used in government advocacy, says Shearing, to show the industry's competitiveness in North America and urge legislators and regulators to foster growth.