Qatar Vinyl Company (QVC) was established in 1997 as a limited Qatari shareholding company. The company, located in Mesaieed Industrial City, was inaugurated in 2001 by H.H. the Emir, Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani.
Shareholders are Qatar Petroleum (25.5%), QAPCO (31.9%), Norsk Hydro (29.7%) and Atofina (12.9%).
Operations in 2003 have shown that the plant may be operated consistently at loads 10% above hourly design on the Chlor Alkali side, while some 25% above the design is possible for the VCM plant.
Annual production in metric tons (MT)
Ethylene dichloride (EDC) 198,200
Vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) 278,600
Caustic soda 336,400
The major market conditions for QVC products in 2003 improved compared to 2002 and the price fluctuations during the year remained marginal. During 2003, QVC consolidated its customer base in Asia and Australia and negotiated new contracts for caustic soda and VCM.
Most of the QVC products are now committed to long-term contracts to the customers in India, Pakistan, Australia and South East Asia. QVC expect that the Chlor Alkali Industry should have up-cycle in the coming months, and with the help of shareholders marketing knowledge, will ensure that it utilizes its best potential for product sales.
Logistics and shipment wise, performance remained satisfactory during 2003 and QVC has utilized its jetty, despite the 56% occupancy rate, and with minimum demurrage possible.
Expansion plans are continuing with the approval of Phase I established by June 2003 and completion of all works is planned for year 2004. The other future plans are under discussion.
