Chinese investment levels

Sandholzer, C., Boerwinkle, E., Saha, N., Tong, M. C., and Utermann, G., Apolipopro-tein(a) phenotypes, Lp(a) concentration and plasma lipid levels in relation to coronary heart disease in a Chinese population Evidence for the role of the apo(a) gene in coronary heart disease. J. Clin. Invest. 89, 1040-1046 (1992). 

Chinese demand has been the main driver of the world petrochemicals recovery since 2002, and while scenarios exist under which China s demand falters, the consensus view is that it will continue, and that petrochemical prices will be sustained at high levels until new capacity comes online. The products elevated price levels and margins are likely to attract new investments in the next few years. At this point the products seem likely to resume the cycle of overinvestment leading to a price bust later in the decade, followed by a period of underinvestment leading to a new price spike several years later. While the drivers of the price movements contrast with those of crude and natural gas and are more inherently shortterm, they ensure similar and continued price volatility. 

Whatever your decision may be, it will help to remember that ancient Chinese proverb If you don t know where you are going, then any road will take you there A properly implemented and managed system safety program can provide an excellent roadmap to help individuals, organizations, and entire corporations find their way to a safe, productive, and profitable destination while ensuring the lowest possible level of acceptable risk with a maximum return on investment. 

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