LyondellBasell and Covestro have permanently shut down their Maasvlakte PO-11 facility in the Netherlands after 22 years of operation. The plant, located near Rotterdam, produced propylene oxide and styrene monomer (POSM), essential chemicals used in plastics, coatings, insulation, packaging, and automotive components. Known for its advanced technology and high CO₂ efficiency, PO-11 was one of the most modern installations in Europe.
Despite a €250 million investment in sustainability upgrades, the facility could not compete with rising imports from Asia, global overcapacity, and Europe’s high energy and labor costs.
The shutdown affects employees, suppliers, and regional chemical production capacity, highlighting the challenges of maintaining a competitive base chemical industry in Europe.
Decommissioning and demolition will continue through 2026, and LyondellBasell emphasizes that while the closure is difficult, it underscores the importance of supporting sustainable and competitive industrial infrastructure in the Netherlands and across Europe. 
Source: LyondellBasell with additional information added by Glass Balkan
