The first quarter of LyondellBasell

In the first quarter of 2025, LyondellBasell reported a net profit of 177 million dollars and an Ebitda of 655 million dollars.

In North America, integrated polyethylene profitability was pressured by lower volumes and margins associated with planned and unplanned maintenance at LyondellBasell assets as well as sequentially higher ethane and natural gas costs. The company's US polypropylene volumes increased 12% compared to the prior quarter, due to market share gains supported by increased polypropylene operating rates that rose by 20%, reaching 85% of nameplate capacity. In Europe, improved integrated polyethylene profitability was driven by increased ethylene cracker utilization following planned maintenance and typical seasonal demand improvements coupled with modest customer restocking.

LyondellBasell continued to navigate dynamic market conditions during the first quarter while advancing on its three-pillar strategy. The company is enhancing its market position by securing an award for a cost-advantaged feedstock allocation in the Middle East and reaching final investment decision to profitably expand its US propylene capacity. To address ongoing macroeconomic volatility, LyondellBasell is announcing a 500 million dollars cash improvement plan focused on strengthening financial results.

In the second quarter, the company expects seasonal demand improvements across most businesses. US natural gas and ethane feedstock costs have moderated and operations in Europe and Asia are benefiting from lower crude oil costs. In Europe, the rapid pace of capacity rationalization continues and is expected to improve regional supply and demand balances over the coming years. Additionally, more constructive approaches to European economic and regulatory policies are providing measured optimism. Despite economic uncertainty, global packaging demand should remain resilient in serving consumer needs for packaged food, healthcare and other essential everyday products. To align with global demand and the company's planned maintenance, LYB expects second quarter operating rates of 85% for North American olefins and polyolefins assets, 75% for European olefins and polyolefins assets and 85% for intermediates and derivatives assets.

“The LyondellBasell team continued to execute well during the first quarter. With planned maintenance at our largest ethylene crackers successfully completed in Europe and the US, our assets are well-positioned to serve improving seasonal demand while adapting to dynamic trade flows through a flexible and global manufacturing network. And as we did during the last two years, we continue to take sensible measures to strengthen our near-term cash generation while remaining committed to delivering on our three-pillar strategy through this prolonged industry downturn. Our financial and operational discipline enables us to effectively navigate macroeconomic challenges, achieve sustainable growth and provide a strong and reliable dividend throughout the cycle”, summarised the CEO Peter Vanacker.