Chemical manufacturing companies compete across several key areas in the global market, including:

1. Commodity Chemicals and Basic Commodities: chemical manufacturing companies like BASF, Sinopec, and SABIC compete in the production of basic chemicals that serve as raw materials for a multitude of other products and materials. For instance, BASF anticipates that competitors in Asia, North America, and the Middle East will become increasingly significant due to advantages in raw material and energy prices.

2. Performance Materials: Covestro, as a global leader in advanced and high-performance materials like polycarbonates, polyurethanes, and coatings, is committed to innovating the polymer industry through a circular economy and carbon-neutral pledges.

3. Sustainable Solutions: With increasing concerns about environmental impact, companies like Covestro and INEOS are developing and promoting sustainable products and technologies to reduce carbon footprints and improve resource efficiency.

4. Specialty Chemicals and Materials: LG Chem focuses on areas such as eco-friendly materials, battery materials, and new global innovative drugs through its research and development and open innovation initiatives to address the challenges of sustainable technology.

5. Polymers and Plastics: LyondellBasell, as a leader in the global chemical industry, drives sustainable solutions in over 100 international markets with its products, materials, and technologies, promoting food safety, clean water, healthcare, and fuel efficiency.

6. Agricultural Chemicals: Some chemical manufacturing companies also venture into the realm of agricultural chemicals, with Dow being a former leading producer globally.

7. Electronic Chemicals and Advanced Materials: The demand for electronic chemicals and advanced materials is growing with technological advancements, becoming another area of competition for chemical manufacturing companies.

8. Bioplastics and Bio-based Products: chemical manufacturing companies like LG Chem are developing bioplastics and bio-based products to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and offer environmentally friendly solutions.

9. Circular Economy: chemical manufacturing companies are exploring how to establish a circular economy by recycling and reusing materials to reduce waste and emissions.

10. Energy and Resource Efficiency: Amid concerns about climate change, chemical companies are seeking ways to improve energy efficiency and use renewable resources.

These competitive areas reflect the global trends in the chemical manufacturing industry, including increasing attention to sustainability and environmental responsibility, as well as the demand for innovative and efficient solutions.