BASF: Increase in BDO Production in Ludwigshafen to Stabilize European Supply

BASF’s Intermediates division is gradually increasing production volumes of 1,4-butanediol (BDO) at its Ludwigshafen site. The aim is to stabilize supply for European customers along the BDO value chain in light of changing market conditions.

This step follows the European Commission’s advance notice of January 8, 2026, announcing that imports of BDO from China, Saudi Arabia, and the United States are to be subject to provisional anti-dumping duties. The measure follows findings of significant dumping and injury margins. Against this regulatory backdrop, BASF is expanding its regional production base to ensure reliable supply within Europe.

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The production expansion in Ludwigshafen builds on the site’s integrated Verbund structure, which covers the entire acetylene value chain. The higher BDO output will also increase the availability of key derivatives such as tetrahydrofuran (THF), polytetrahydrofuran (“PolyTHF”), and N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP). These products are used, among other applications, in the manufacture of polymers, solvents, elastomers, and high-performance materials. The measure is intended to support production planning in downstream industries and strengthen the resilience of key value chains.

According to the company, the focus on the Ludwigshafen site is part of a long-term strategy for the European BDO and derivatives market. Strengthening regional production capacities is gaining importance in the context of global market shifts and increasing regionalization.

At the same time, as part of its sustainability strategy, BASF is expanding its portfolio of biomass-balanced (BMB) variants of BDO, THF, and PolyTHF. These products are partially based on renewable feedstocks and contribute to reducing the product carbon footprint (PCF). Production at the integrated Ludwigshafen site is also expected to shorten transport distances and leverage Verbund synergies, further helping to lower CO₂ emissions. In addition, the company is working on solutions that increasingly incorporate renewable energy and raw materials.

BDO is a key intermediate for numerous industries, including polymers, textiles, automotive applications, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods. BASF operates BDO production plants in Ludwigshafen (Germany) and Geismar (Louisiana, USA) and is one of the international manufacturers of BDO and its derivatives.

More information:
chemicals.basf.com/global/en/Intermediates/sustainability/biomass-balance, www.basf.com

BASF SE, Ludwigshafen, Germany

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