Wedoany.com Report-Apr. 8, On March 31, 2025, construction began for the Silleno polyethylene plant in the Atyrau region of Kazakhstan, within the Special Economic Zone "National Industrial Oil and Gas Chemical Technopark." Workers drove the first piles into the foundation, marking the start of a major industrial project. The launch event was attended by key figures, including Serik Shapkenov, akim of Atyrau region; Askhаt Khasenov, Chairman of JSC NC "Kazmunaygas" (KMG); Kudaibergen Arymbek, Vice Minister of Energy of Kazakhstan; Pavel Lyakhovich, Managing Director of Sibur; and Wan Tao, Senior Vice President of Sinopec.

The grand construction project was launched by Serik Shapkenov, akim of Atyrau region; Askhаt Khasenov, Chairman of the Board of JSC NC "Kazmunaygas" (KMG); Kudaibergen Arymbek, Vice Minister of Energy of Kazakhstan; Pavel Lyakhovich, Member of the Management Board and Managing Director of Sibur; and Wan Tao, Senior Vice President of Sinopec.

The Silleno plant, with an annual capacity of 1.25 million tons of polyethylene and an investment of about 7 billion dollars, is slated for completion by 2028. Production is expected to start in 2029, making it one of Kazakhstan’s largest manufacturing endeavors. The facility will produce over 20 polyethylene grades, serving essential industrial sectors.

This project is set to benefit Kazakhstan’s economy significantly. During construction, it will generate around 8,000 jobs, followed by 800 permanent positions once operational. The plant will boost non-resource exports and reduce reliance on imported polyethylene, covering roughly 90% of the domestic market. National statistics show Kazakhstan’s polyethylene demand was approximately 300,000 tons in 2024, with projections suggesting growth to 400,000 tons by 2035. Silleno’s output will largely meet this need, supporting local consumption.

The plant’s raw material, ethane, will come from the KMG Gas Separation Complex, sourced from Tengizchevroil’s gas fields. A new pipeline, built by KMG, will transport the ethane to Silleno. The facility will feature advanced technology, including a steam cracker for ethylene production by Lummus Technology (USA), polymerization units from Chevron Phillips Chemical (USA) and Univation Technologies (USA), and a butene unit by Axens (France). These systems aim to ensure reliable operations and minimize environmental impact.

Construction kicked off with the steam cracker, managed by a consortium of Tecnicas Reunidas (Spain) and Sinopec Engineering Incorporation (China) as the EPC contractor. Wan Tao noted: “This collaboration reflects a commitment to sustainable industrial growth.” The project’s design prioritizes safety and efficiency, drawing on expertise from leading global firms in petrochemicals.

Silleno’s development underscores Kazakhstan’s focus on expanding its industrial base. By enhancing domestic production, the plant will strengthen the nation’s economic framework while meeting rising demand for polyethylene in key sectors. The initiative remains centered on local benefits, with no indication of trade imbalances or external dependencies.