ACST News

Huntsman Deepens TPU Distribution Partnership with WOBATEK GmbH

Huntsman strengthens its presence in Central and Eastern Europe by expanding its TPU distribution partnership with WOBATEK GmbH.Through this collaboration, WOBATEK will distribute Huntsman’s AVALON®, IROGRAN®, and IROSTIC® thermoplastic polyurethane...

China Releases Work Plan for Stabilizing Growth in Petrochemical and Chemical Industry (2025–2026)

On September 26, 2025, China released the Work Plan for Stabilizing Growth in the Petrochemical and Chemical Industry (2025–2026). The plan sets a goal of over 5% annual growth, while...

India Imposes Anti-Dumping Duties on Chinese Copolymer Polyol After DGTR Investigation

On September 26, 2025, India imposed definitive anti-dumping duties on Chinese Copolymer Polyol to safeguard its domestic polyurethane industry. A DGTR investigation revealed a 287% surge in Chinese imports, capturing...

The US Issues Preliminary Affirmative Determination on MDI Imports from China

On September 16, 2025, the U.S. Department of Commerce issued its preliminary affirmative determination in the antidumping duty investigation of MDI from China, with margins up to 511.75%. While the...

Indian Polyurethane Association (IPUA) to Co-Organize PTIF 2026, Strengthening Global Polyurethane Collaboration

The Indian Polyurethane Association (IPUA) will co-organize PTIF 2026 in Shanghai from June 22–27, 2026. As one of the most influential events in the polyurethane industry, PTIF 2026 will focus...

Policy Update: EPA Removes Affirmative Defense for Polyether Polyols Producers

The EPA has removed the “affirmative defense” for polyether polyols producers, increasing liability for any emissions violations. This change affects the polyurethane industry, ensuring continuous compliance with NESHAP standards and...

How Polyurethane is Powering the Next Generation of Robots

Polyurethane is quietly revolutionizing robotics, from humanoid robots to industrial machines. With its flexibility, durability, and biocompatibility, polyurethane enhances robot safety, dexterity, and environmental adaptability. Applications include biomimetic “electronic skin,”...

Changhua to Launch CO2-Based Polyols for Flexible Foam under Carnol Brand

Changhua Chemical is set to launch CO2-based polyols under the Carnol brand in 2025, using Econic catalyst technology to produce sustainable polyurethane for automotive and home furnishing applications.

Rate Cuts Spark Optimism for U.S. Polyurethane Demand

The Federal Reserve’s potential rate cut could reshape U.S. polyurethane demand across construction, real estate, insulation materials, and upholstered furniture. While lower borrowing costs may stimulate housing activity and energy-efficient...

Aster Declares Force Majeure at Bukom Island Ethylene Cracker

Aster Chemicals has declared force majeure at its ethylene cracker on Bukom Island, Singapore, after an extended turnaround disrupted operations. The outage has cut feedstock supply to downstream units, including...

Mexico to Raise Tariffs on Chinese Imports in 2026 Budget

Mexico is preparing to raise tariffs on a broad range of Chinese imports as part of its 2026 budget proposal. The policy, backed by President Claudia Sheinbaum, aims to protect...

China PMDI Trade Update: Regional Export Shifts and Rising Middle East Imports

In July 2025, China’s polymeric MDI exports declined 18% year-on-year to 64,100 tonnes, while imports surged 70.1%, driven by shipments from Saudi Arabia and South Korea. Exports to India, Vietnam,...