International News Guide: Raw Material News - EU to Establish Critical Chemical Alliance to Safeguard Supply Chain Security Automotive News - China and the EU Agree to Establish a Working Group to Cooperate on Cross-Border Data Flow in the Automotive Sector Electronic News - SABIC Launches First Flame-Retardant PBT Nano Injection Molding Material with Excellent Bonding Strength and Mechanical Properties Packaging News - German associations push for mandatory compostable produce bags Medical News - Sengkang General Hospital in Singapore Adopts 3D-Printed TPU Materials to Customize Orthotic Insoles for Diabetics Macro News - US Imposes Anti-Dumping Duties on Chinese Graphite Price information - RMB/USD Central Parity Rate Reports 7.1498, Down by 37 Pips    details of international news:   1. Escalation of Retaliatory Measures! EU Continues to Pressure the US According to two officials who were briefed on the talks, the EU is preparing a list of possible tariffs on US services and export control measures as part of potential retaliatory actions if trade negotiations with Washington fail. In response to US President Trump's tariffs, the European Commission is compiling this list of measures, which still needs to be submitted to EU member states. Trump has announced that he plans to impose a 30% tariff on the EU bloc starting from August 1. Although Brussels had previously warned that it could expand the transatlantic trade war to services if negotiations to avoid these tariffs fail, it has so far not submitted specific measures to European capitals. One of the officials emphasized that the list will not only target US tech companies. This list will be an additional measure beyond the retaliatory proposal already being discussed by EU countries targeting 72 billion euros of annual US imports, which includes tariffs on Boeing aircraft, automobiles, and bourbon whiskey. 2. EU to Establish Critical Chemical Alliance to Safeguard Supply Chain Security The EU's executive body stated that the European Commission will work with member states and the chemical industry to support the production of chemicals identified as crucial to Europe's industrial supply chains. The European Commission said it will establish a Critical Chemical Alliance later this year, which will bring together the Commission, member states, and various stakeholders as part of a broader plan to revitalize Europe's chemical industry. In a statement, the Commission said the alliance will "identify key production sites in need of policy support and address trade issues such as supply chain dependencies and market distortions". This initiative draws on another alliance established earlier, which is responsible for identifying metals and minerals crucial to the energy transition. Subsequently, the EU set mining, processing, and recycling targets for 17 strategic materials. 3. Agilyx Acquires 44% Stake in Europe’s TopPlastic RecyclerGreenDot Global Agilyx acquires 44% of GreenDot, expanding into Europe’s recycling market and strengthening its global advanced plasticsrecycling platform. 4. Turkey: Anti-Dumping Measures on China-Related Polyethylene, Polypropylene Waterproof Tarpaulins and Polymer Plastic Products to Expire Soon According to the China Trade Remedy Information Network, on July 16, 2025, Turkey's Ministry of Trade issued Announcement No. 2025/15, stating that anti-dumping measures on polyethylene and polypropylene waterproof tarpaulins and polymer plastic products [Turkish: Polietilen ve polipropilenden mamul şerit veya benzerlerinden dokunmuş mensucat (yalnız dokuma brandalar)] originating from China and Vietnam will expire on May 6, 2026. Stakeholders should submit applications and evidence materials for sunset review investigations no later than 3 months before the expiration date. The Turkish tariff codes for the products are 3921.90.60.00.11, 3921.90.60.00.13, and 3926.90.97.90.18. The announcement takes effect from the date of issuance. 5. SABIC Launches First Flame-Retardant PBT Nano Injection Molding Material with Excellent Bonding Strength and Mechanical Properties SABIC announced the launch of a new product in its LNP™ THERMOTUF™ specialty composite series. The new LNP™ THERMOTUF™ WF0087N composite is the industry's first polybutylene terephthalate (PBT)-based nano-molding technology (NMT) material, combining excellent flame retardancy and superior mechanical properties. It meets the growing demand of the consumer electronics industry for lightweight and durable metal-plastic composite components, such as smartphone middle frames. In addition, the material's flame retardancy helps customers comply with the latest IEC 62368-1 safety standards for consumer electronic equipment. The LNP™ THERMOTUF™ WF0087N composite won the 2025 Edison Award. 6. Messe Düsseldorf unites its global plastics, rubber events under K-Alliance brand Germany-based global exhibition organizer Messe Düsseldorf is launching a new umbrella brand called “K-Alliance” to unite its worldwide plastics and rubber trade fairs under one identity, which replaces the previous Global Gate brand. “Global players in the plastics and rubber industry require appropriate platforms for direct market entry in growth regions,” said Thomas Franken, director of K. “Messe Düsseldorf has pooled its worldwide activities under the Global Gate brand, which will now become the K–Alliance.” Officials said the new name highlights not just market access but also strategic partnerships and alliances within the industry’s global trade fair network. “The previous name especially emphasized Messe Düsseldorf’s function as a door opener for entering promising sales markets,” Franken said. “The designation K-Alliance now places a clearer focus on the strong partnerships and alliances that our constantly growing, worldwide network of trade fairs related to plastics and rubber stands for.” The K-Alliance currently encompasses 11 global trade fairs, the biggest of which is the K fair; K 2025 is scheduled for Oct. 8-15 in Düsseldorf, with more than 3,200 exhibitors expected to showcase technologies in manufacturing, processing and finishing. 7. German associations push for mandatory compostable produce bags Industry associations are calling for compostable fruit and vegetable bags to become mandatory under the Packaging and Packaging Regulation (PPWR).The IK Industrial Association for Plastics Packaging, Plastics Europe Germany, European Bioplastics, Polykum, Carmen, and the nova Institute have published a position paper providing recommendations for Germany to implement the requirement at national level. 8. China and the EU Agree to Establish a Working Group to Cooperate on Cross-Border Data Flow in the Automotive Sector On July 17 , the second meeting of the China-EU Cross-Border Data Flow Exchange Mechanism was held in Brussels. Wang Jingtao, Vice Minister of the Cyberspace Administration of China, and Sabine Weyand, Director-General of the Directorate-General for Trade of the European Commission, co-chaired the meeting. The meeting reviewed the positive progress made since the establishment of the mechanism, believing that the mechanism has played an important role in promoting China-EU cross-border data flow. The two sides had in-depth, pragmatic, and constructive exchanges on issues related to China-EU cross-border data flow, and reached broad consensus on further leveraging the mechanism under the principle of two-way reciprocity and promoting rule alignment, in light of the demands of enterprises from both sides. The two sides agreed to establish a working group to cooperate on cross-border data flow in the automotive sector. 9.Sengkang General Hospital in Singapore Adopts 3D-Printed TPU Materials to Customize Orthotic Insoles for Diabetics The podiatry team at Sengkang General Hospital in Singapore is pioneering an innovative approach to diabetic foot care. Currently, the team is producing 3D-printed custom orthotic insoles in-house. These insoles are 3D-printed using thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Preliminary results show that compared with traditional insoles (23% reduction in peak pressure, 40% improvement in pressure distribution), the new insoles can reduce plantar peak pressure by up to 28.5% and improve pressure distribution by 52.7%.   Overseas macro markets:   【Putin: Europe's Abandonment of Russian Natural Gas Has Negatively Affected Its Industry】 On the 17th, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated in an interview that Europe's decision to abandon Russian natural gas has had a negative impact on its industry. In addition, Russian media reported that EU imports of Russian oil in May hit a three-month high, indicating that some EU member states still rely on Russian oil. 【Alcoa: Tariffs Keep Increasing Production Costs】 According to Bloomberg, Alcoa, the largest aluminum producer in the US, stated that US tariff policies are continuously increasing the company's production costs, and due to the impact of tariffs, its US customers are paying more for aluminum. 【US Media: US Imposes Anti-Dumping Duties on Chinese Graphite】 According to Bloomberg, the US has imposed a preliminary anti-dumping duty of 93.5% on graphite from China. A statement from the US Department of Commerce noted: "The US Department of Commerce has preliminarily determined to impose a 93.5% anti-dumping duty on imports of key battery material graphite from China due to unfair subsidies for these materials." It is worth noting that the final ruling is expected to be made by December 5 【Reliance Industries' Market Value Grows by 40 Billion USD This Year】 Shares of India's Reliance Industries have significantly outperformed India's benchmark stock index this year, with the largest lead in five years. So far this year, shares of India's most valuable company have surged 22%, while the NSE Nifty 50 index has risen only 6% in the same period. Controlled by Asia's richest man Mukesh Ambani, Reliance Industries has increased its market value by 40 billion USD in 2025, accounting for nearly one-third of the market value growth of India's benchmark stock index.   Price information:   【RMB/USD Central Parity Rate】 The RMB/USD central parity rate was reported at 7.1498, down by 37 pips; the previous trading day's central parity rate was 7.1461, the previous trading day's official closing price was 7.1796, and the previous night's closing price was 7.1809. 【Upstream raw material USD market price】 Ethylene Asia: CFR Northeast Asia $820/ton; CFR Southeast Asia $830/ton. Acrylic Northeast Asia: FOB Korea average price is $740/ton; CFR China average price is $770/ton, up $5/ton. Propane: North Asia frozen cargo CIF price, propane $512-514/ton; butane $482-484/ton. The import price of South China frozen goods in August is as follows: propane 549-559 USD/ton; butane 520-528 USD/ton. The landed price of frozen goods in Taiwan is propane at 512-514 USD/ton; butane at 482-484 USD/ton. 【LLDPE USD market price】 Film: 860-910 USD/ton (CFR Huangpu); Injection molding: $950/ton (CFR Dongguan); 【HDPE USD market price】 Film: $920/ton (CFR Huangpu); Hollow: 855-860 USD/ton (CFR Huangpu); 【LDPE USD market price】 Film: $1070-1090/ton (CFR Huangpu); Coating: $1350/ton (CFR Huangpu) 【PP USD market price】 Average aggregation: 965 USD/ton (CFR Huangpu); Co-polymerization: 940-950 USD/ton (CFR Nansha); Membrane material: 1030 USD/ton (CFR Nansha); Transparent: $1,085/ton (CFR Huangpu); Pipes: 1160 USD/ton (CFR Shanghai).

The crisis on the German plasticsrecycling market continues to deepen: Veolia Umweltservice, part of the global Veolia group, notified staff members on Tuesday that it would be shuttering the plastic recycling businesses Multiport and Multipet at the end of the year. Europe’s largest environmental services company already shut down its PET recycling operations in Rostock at the end of 2023 owing to economic pressures. After the newly announced closures in Bernburg, Saxony-Anhalt, Veolia will no longer have any plastic recycling operations in Germany. At the same time, however, Veolia is expanding its recycling activities elsewhere in Europe. Last week, the company announced plans for the United Kingdom’s first "tray-to-tray" facility, where it will process PET trays and bottles.

July 16, 2025SABICAnnounces the launch of a new product in its LNP™ THERMOTUF™ specialty composite series. The new LNP™ THERMOTUF™ WF0087N composite material is the industry's first based on polybutylene terephthalate (PBT).PBTThe nano-molding technology (NMT) material has excellent flame-retardant properties and outstanding mechanical performance. It meets the growing demand in the consumer electronics industry for lightweight and durable metal-plastic composite parts (such as the frames of smartphones). In addition, the material's flame-retardant properties help customers comply with the latest IEC 62368-1 safety standard for consumer electronic devices. LNP™ THERMOTUF™ WF0087N composite material has been awarded the 2025 Edison Award. SABIC's Director of R&D and Applications for the Asia Pacific region, Jenny Wang, stated: "As smartphones continue to break through in design, wireless connectivity, and charging speed, the industry urgently needs advanced materials to match these developments. The launch of this new flame-retardant nano-injection composite material demonstrates SABIC's commitment to the consumer electronics market. We will leverage breakthrough materials to help our customers enhance the performance, safety, compliance for mass production, and manufacturing efficiency of devices such as smartphones." Expand the advantages of nanomolding technology. Nano Molding Technology (NMT) creates tightly bonded composites by injecting plastic resin into chemically treated metal surfaces. Compared to die casting and insert molding techniques, NMT helps manufacturers achieve lightweight, thin-walled designs, radio frequency signal permeability, superior aesthetics, and a more streamlined processing workflow, while also enhancing the waterproof and dustproof performance of electronic devices. In addition to these advantages, LNP™ THERMOTUF™ composite materials retain good bonding strength and mechanical properties (such as impact resistance) while adding thin-wall flame retardant performance (UL94 V0 at 1.0 mm). Their metal bonding strength is improved by about 60% compared to conventional flame-retardant PBT resins, helping designers meet the stringent IP68 waterproof and dustproof standards. This innovative material also possesses the following characteristics: excellent resistance to corrosion from anodic oxidation treatment, support for customized coloring to achieve aesthetic design, and dielectric properties that ensure signal transmission efficiency for multi-antenna devices. Its main application scenarios include antenna dividers and various structural components for smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and laptops.

Background Briefing Hexamethylenediamine, also known as hexamethylenediamine, is an important chemical intermediate. It is mainly used for the production of polyamide 66 (also known as nylon 66 or PA66), which is widely used in automotive, electrical and electronic, aerospace, machinery, chemical, and textile industries due to its excellent overall performance. In addition, hexamethylenediamine is also used to produce specialty polyamides (such as PA610, PA6T, etc.), polyurethane raw materials such as hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI), epoxy resin curing agents, rubber vulcanization accelerators, and as stabilizers in the textile and paper industries, among other applications. Process technology route There are multiple routes for the global production of hexamethylenediamine, with the butadiene cyanohydrin method occupying a dominant position. 01 Self-dicarbonitrile hydrogenation method According to the different raw materials, the process of hydrogenating hexanedinitrile to produce hexanediamine can be divided into three methods: butadiene cyanohydrin method, propionitrile electrolytic dimerization method, and hexanedioic acid catalytic amination method. 02 Caprolactam Ammoniation Dehydration Method Using caprolactam as a raw material, aminocapronitrile is first produced through ammoniation and dehydration, and then hydrogenated to obtain hexamethylenediamine. Representative companies include Toray Industries from Japan, Yangnong Ruitai under Sinochem in China, and Pingmei Shenma. Toray Industries commissioned its hexamethylenediamine plant in 1965, but at that time, the price of caprolactam was high, making it economically unfeasible. In April 2024, Jiangsu Yangnong Chemical Group, Xiamen University, and Ningxia Ruitai Technology Co., Ltd. jointly completed the "Key Technology Development and Industrialization of High-Quality Hexamethylenediamine Production via Caprolactam Method," filling the technological gap in the production of hexamethylenediamine using the caprolactam method and breaking the international monopoly. Ningbo Galnew Material Technology Co., Ltd. has acquired Japanese process technology and patents, and after optimization and improvement, has formed independent intellectual property rights. Pingmei Shenma Group is collaborating with this company to construct the Aisuan project. In June 2025, the first phase of the project, with an annual capacity of 50,000 tons of aminocapronitrile, will be put into production, and there are plans to build a hexamethylenediamine project.   Global Hexamethylenediamine Industry Review In 2024, global hexamethylenediamine production capacity will exceed 2 million tons per year, with a high market concentration. The capacity is mainly concentrated in international chemical giants such as Ascend, Invista, and BASF, as well as advanced domestic enterprises like Chongqing Huafeng, Pingmei Shenma, and Tianchen Qixiang. The global production and consumption of hexamethylenediamine in 2024 is estimated to be around 1.55 million tons, with an actual operating rate of about 75%. Ascend is currently the largest producer of hexamethylenediamine in the world, with a total production capacity of 600,000 tons per year. Its production bases include the Pensacola plant in Florida and the Decatur plant in Alabama in the United States, as well as the Lianyungang plant in Jiangsu, China. However, due to multiple factors such as global trade frictions, industry cyclical fluctuations, and increasing market competition, Ascend is facing significant operational pressure. In April 2025, Ascend announced its entry into bankruptcy reorganization to reduce debt and optimize its capital structure; on June 17, the company announced the orderly shutdown of the Lianyungang plant in Jiangsu. Invista's global capacity for hexamethylenediamine exceeds 500,000 tons per year, with production bases located in the United States, Canada, and Shanghai, China. Notably, Invista originally planned to shut down the hexamethylenediamine and hexamethylendiamine units at its Orange facility in the U.S. starting in 2023. According to the initial plan, the hexamethylenediamine production unit at the Orange facility was to immediately initiate safety shutdown procedures, while the hexamethylenediamine production was scheduled to cease in mid-2024. However, in October 2024, Invista announced a partnership with Dow, deciding to continue long-term production of hexamethylenediamine at the Orange facility, given its demonstrated safety, reliability, and competitive operational capabilities when producing solely hexamethylenediamine. Additionally, in July 2024, Invista announced the restart of the hexamethylenediamine production line at its Maitland facility in Canada, which resumed production in the first quarter of 2025. BASF announced in June 2025 that its new hexanediamine plant in Chalampé, France, has been successfully put into operation, increasing its global hexanediamine production capacity to 260,000 tons per year. The implementation of this project not only consolidates BASF's competitive advantage in the upstream of the polyamide industry chain but also provides a stable raw material guarantee for the polyamide industry in Europe.   Review of China's Hexamethylenediamine Industry 1 Supply Analysis: In 2024, there are a total of 8 caprolactam production enterprises in China, with a combined production capacity of 1.37 million tons per year, and the industry's effective operating rate is approximately 55%. By the end of 2024, China's total production capacity of hexamethylenediamine will reach 1.371 million tons per year, with the new capacity mainly concentrated in the East China region. The domestic production of hexamethylenediamine in 2024 is expected to be approximately 463,000 tons, an increase of 18.4% year-on-year. From the perspective of competitive landscape, China's hexamethylenediamine production enterprises are mainly concentrated in the East China region, including Shanghai, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Shandong, and Chongqing. The East China region accounts for 65% of the production capacity. The industry has a high concentration, with the top three enterprises (TOP3) collectively accounting for about 52% of the national total production capacity. Major production enterprises include Invista, Tianchen Qixiang, and Huafeng Group. From 2021 to 2024, domestic hexamethylenediamine production capacity is rapidly increasing, especially with significant capacity expansion in 2024. The main reasons driving the rapid expansion of China's hexamethylenediamine capacity include: (1) National policy support. The government has introduced a series of policies to support the upgrading of the chemical industry and the localization of key materials, encouraging enterprises to break through "bottleneck" technologies such as hexanediamine and hexanedinitrile. These policies create a favorable environment for capacity expansion and enhance the overall competitiveness of the polyamide industry. (2) Breakthrough in the domestication of upstream raw material adiponitrile. Hexamethylenediamine is produced by hydrogenating adiponitrile. In the past, the production technology of adiponitrile has long been monopolized by overseas companies, which restricted the development of the domestic hexamethylenediamine industry. Since 2022, domestic companies such as Huafeng Group and Tianchen Qixiang have made significant breakthroughs in adiponitrile production technology, achieving large-scale production and successfully resolving the supply bottleneck of upstream raw materials for hexamethylenediamine, laying a solid foundation for the capacity expansion of hexamethylenediamine. (3) Strong demand from downstream markets. The main downstream products of hexamethylenediamine (HMDA) are PA66 and HDI. Among them, the application demand for PA66 in the automotive, electronics, and engineering plastics sectors continues to grow; the consumption of HDI in high-performance coatings and adhesives markets is rapidly increasing. The robust demand in the downstream market directly drives the consumption growth of the raw material HMDA, further promoting capacity expansion. 2 Demand Analysis: With the rapid growth of PA66 and HDI consumption, the consumption of hexamethylenediamine is expected to increase by 15% year-on-year in 2024. In 2024, China's consumption of hexamethylenediamine reached 495,000 tons, a year-on-year increase of 15.1%. Currently, PA66 is the largest consumption field for hexamethylenediamine in China. In 2024, domestic PA66 production capacity is 1.292 million tons/year, with a production volume of approximately 701,000 tons and a consumption volume of about 725,000 tons. In 2024, the domestic production of PA66 is expected to grow, primarily due to the continuous release of industry capacity, increased market supply, a favorable export market, and rapid growth in downstream demand. The downstream applications of PA66 are divided into three main categories: engineering plastics, industrial yarns, and civilian yarns. In 2024, the growth in PA66 demand will be mainly driven by the engineering plastics and industrial yarn sectors, with the automotive and electronics industries in the engineering plastics downstream and the tire industry in the industrial yarn downstream being the primary sources of PA66 demand growth. HDI is the second largest consumption field for China's hexamethylenediamine. As an aliphatic isocyanate without a benzene ring structure, HDI-based polyurethane coatings exhibit high resistance to yellowing and chalking, and can maintain the gloss of the paint surface for a long time. It is widely used in automotive, industrial protection, woodwork, and marine applications. The use of HDI aligns with the trend of upgrading polyurethane coatings towards high performance and environmental friendliness, leading to a continuous increase in consumption. In 2024, domestic HDI production capacity is expected to experience explosive growth. In addition to Covestro maintaining its existing capacity of 80,000 tons/year, Wanhua Chemical's Ningbo plant, Meirui New Materials, and Xinheng Cheng's HDI projects will all begin production, with total domestic HDI capacity reaching 330,000 tons/year by the end of 2024, an output of approximately 141,000 tons, and a consumption of about 130,000 tons. The application fields of hexamethylenediamine in China also include the production of special polyamides such as PA610 and PA6T, epoxy resin curing agents, a small amount used as rubber vulcanization accelerators, as well as stabilizers in the textile and paper industries. 3 Supply and demand forecasting: Caprolactam is still in a rapid development stage in China. Due to the accelerated localization of the raw material adiponitrile and the consumption drive from downstream PA66 and HDI, it is expected that the annual average growth rate of caprolactam consumption will remain at 10.1% by 2030. Currently, the domestic hexanediamine industry is still in a rapid development stage, and PA66 and HDI will continue to be the core driving forces for the growth in hexanediamine consumption. PA66 Market Outlook From 2024 to 2030, China's consumption of PA66 is expected to maintain a rapid growth trend, with an overall growth rate of about 8%. The growth in consumption is mainly driven by strong demand in the fields of engineering plastics and industrial yarns. At the same time, domestic PA66 production capacity will continue to expand, with an expected capacity of 2.8 million tons per year by 2030. With the increase in capacity, market supply capability will also be enhanced, and it is anticipated that from 2024 to 2030, the production growth rate will be approximately 11.5%, further driving the demand for hexamethylenediamine. HDI Market Outlook As a key raw material for high-performance polyurethane coatings, the demand for environmentally friendly high-performance coatings in industries such as automotive, construction, and woodworking will drive the continuous increase in HDI consumption in China. It is expected that from 2024 to 2030, domestic HDI consumption will grow rapidly at a compound annual growth rate of 8.3%. By 2030, with the gradual implementation of a series of new and expanded projects, domestic HDI production capacity is expected to reach 433,000 tons per year. At that time, market supply capacity will be significantly enhanced, and during the period from 2024 to 2030, production is expected to achieve an average annual growth rate of 8.3%, thereby increasing the demand for hexamethylenediamine. Market Outlook for Diethylamine Chinese enterprises are actively planning new construction and expansion projects for hexamethylenediamine, with a total of 1.752 million tons/year of new capacity planned domestically. Strong companies such as Xinhecheng, Zhejiang Petrochemical, Fujian Gulei, Liaoyang Petrochemical, and Hualu Hengsheng are all entering the market. Assuming all these projects are completed and put into production, combined with the exit of some existing domestic capacity, the total domestic capacity for hexamethylenediamine could reach 2.9 million tons/year. Although there is considerable uncertainty regarding the commissioning of some long-term projects, China's production capacity for hexamethylenediamine will still significantly exceed downstream consumption, leading to a more intense competitive landscape in the market.   China's Hexamethylenediamine Price Analysis In recent years, the price of hexamethylenediamine (HMDA) in China has shown a trend of rising first and then falling. In the first half of 2024, the price of HMDA rose, mainly due to the increase in crude oil prices, the continuous rise in the price of butadiene, a raw material for adiponitrile, which pushed up production costs; short-term supply tightness in the HMDA market; and strong demand from downstream PA66. By the second half of 2024, the price of HMDA fell back, reaching 21,000 yuan/ton by the end of the year. In the first half of 2025, the price of hexamethylenediamine (HMDA) is expected to show a divergent pattern of "international price increase and domestic price decrease" due to three factors: the localization of raw materials, tariff policies, and overcapacity. The hexamethylenediamine industry in China is characterized by a relatively concentrated market structure. If production enterprises cease operations due to equipment maintenance, natural disasters, safety accidents, or other factors, it will directly lead to a short-term supply gap, which will in turn drive the price of hexamethylenediamine to rise rapidly. For those production enterprises that rely on purchasing hexamethylenediamine, they may face the risk of supply disruption.   Thoughts on Ascend's Closure of Its Hexamethylenediamine Factory in China On June 17, 2025, global PA66 integrated producer Ascend Performance Materials announced the orderly closure of its hexamethylenediamine production facility located in Lianyungang, China. The plant has an annual capacity of 200,000 tons, and its closure will reduce the supply of hexamethylenediamine. In the short term, the supply tightness in the hexamethylenediamine market will intensify, especially in the Asia-Pacific region. Companies relying on the supply from this plant will face raw material shortages and may need to import from other regions or seek alternative suppliers. Additionally, the reduction in supply and market panic may drive up hexamethylenediamine prices. For downstream companies, since hexamethylenediamine is a key raw material for producing PA66 and HDI, the closure of the plant will increase the difficulty and cost for PA66 and HDI producers to obtain hexamethylenediamine. Some companies dependent on the supply from Ascend's Lianyungang facility may reduce production or even halt operations due to insufficient raw materials. The capacity layout of the Ausun De Lianyungang factory was originally planned to be constructed in three phases. Phase one, with an annual output of 200,000 tons of hexamethylenediamine, also includes specialty amine chemicals such as FlexaTram™ used in coatings, pharmaceuticals, and the oil and gas industries, which began operations in October 2024. Phase two is for the polyamide business, and phase three is for the raw material acrylonitrile. However, Ausun De has announced the orderly shutdown of the factory, less than eight months since the factory officially began operation. Aosenda's main purpose for setting up factories in China is to be closer to the Asia-Pacific market, reduce transportation costs through localized production, and avoid trade barriers (such as US-China tariffs). However, with the domestic breakthroughs in the production of hexamethylenediamine, domestic capacity has seen explosive growth, and market competition has become increasingly fierce. Local companies, leveraging their understanding of domestic market demand and well-established upstream and downstream industrial chain layouts, have demonstrated competitive advantages in cost control, pricing strategies, and customer service, putting Aosenda at a competitive disadvantage. Closing factories is essentially a loss-cutting measure taken by Aosenda to avoid continuous losses in intense competition. From the perspective of strategic adjustment, Ausand's closure of the Lianyungang factory highlights its strategic intention to refocus its business on the United States. By integrating internal resources, Ausand can enhance operational efficiency, concentrating limited resources on core business areas and regions with competitive advantages. At the same time, it will pay more attention to the resilience and security of the supply chain, establishing a more complete and controllable production and supply system in core market areas. Additionally, ongoing trade frictions have profoundly impacted Ausand's global business layout—the changes in tariff policies have significantly increased the cost of exporting products from the U.S. to international markets, directly weakening the price competitiveness of its products in the international market and affecting sales. Therefore, in the near future, it is expected that Ausand will focus on serving the customer base in the domestic U.S. market. For Chinese hexamethylenediamine production enterprises, after Ascend closed its Lianyungang factory, its original market share has become vacant, providing domestic companies with an opportunity to quickly fill the gap. However, the current domestic hexamethylenediamine market has shown a situation of oversupply. If domestic manufacturers want to enhance their competitiveness and expand their market share, the key lies in optimizing production, reducing costs and increasing efficiency, and improving product performance.

The Danish century-old footwear brand ECCO is accelerating its transformation from the business scene to the sports and outdoor arena. At the end of June, ECCO's collaborative capsule collection with the Japanese mountain streetwear brand White Mountaineering made its debut at Paris Fashion Week. The new men's and women's ready-to-wear collection and functional footwear will be launched in August 2025. This is the third collaboration between ECCO and White Mountaineering. As early as late October last year, the joint capsule series was launched, attracting widespread attention in the market. Many people in the outdoor community believe that, empowered by White Mountaineering, ECCO's urban outdoor apparel system can be said to be "winning at the starting line." Dive into the blue ocean of outdoor sports. According to reports, White Mountaineering is a Japanese outdoor apparel brand founded in 2006 by designer Yosuke Aizawa. Over the years, White Mountaineering has been dedicated to merging outdoor sports with fashion, creating a brand new style in fashion. White Mountaineering is very active in collaborations. In addition to working with ECCO, it has also launched collaborative products with fashion brands such as adidas, UGG, Danner, Wrangler, and MADNESS, which are well-loved by consumers. ECCO is a Danish casual footwear brand, founded in 1963, and entered the Chinese market in 1997. ECCO has always left Chinese consumers with the impression of being a mid-to-high-end brand with a price point in the thousand-yuan range and a focus on comfort. However, its design style is relatively conservative, making it more popular among middle-aged and older professional men. There are numerous discussions on social media linking it to terms like "dad shoes," "fashion items for middle-aged men," and "government office footwear." "Ten love walking, nine are rich, and one is just starting." "To do business, you have to travel far; if you want to be rich, wear love walking." Many jokes circulating on social media have turned ECCO into a symbol of success. However, some young people in the comments express confusion about who exactly is wearing these "ugly shoes." This cognitive dissonance reflects the conflict between ECCO's brand DNA and the changes in consumer generations: as Generation Z sees outdoor activities as a trendy lifestyle, this century-old brand, rooted in "comfortable business," is trying to shake off its "middle-aged" label through collaborations with trendy brands. The explosive growth of the outdoor sports market provides a crucial opportunity for its transformation. A recent research report released by Dongfang Caifu Securities shows that outdoor sports are gradually becoming more integrated into daily life and popular among the general public. According to data from Xiaohongshu, activities such as city walking, trail running, stream tracing, diving, rock climbing, cycling, and hiking are seeing rapid growth in search volume. In terms of total search volume, yoga, camping, hiking, cycling, and skiing have become popular outdoor sports with high total search volume and a large number of exposure notes. According to data from the National Bureau of Statistics, the China National Garment Association, and Frost & Sullivan, the market size of the high-performance outdoor footwear and apparel market in mainland China is expected to reach 102.7 billion yuan in 2024. Outdoor apparel leads the industry in growth, with the market size CAGR for apparel, footwear, and accessories from 2019 to 2024 being 14.7%, 12.8%, and 10.0%, respectively. Among them, the windbreakers and sun-protective clothing are the super popular items in outdoor apparel. According to data from Yien, windbreakers have the highest content volume on social media platforms like Douyin and Xiaohongshu. From the market structure perspective, affordable windbreakers occupy the main market, while the mid-to-high-end windbreaker market is growing at a faster pace. According to Jiuqian data, mid-to-high-end windbreakers show stronger growth potential, with online sales growth rates for windbreakers priced between 699-1521 yuan projected to be 37% in the first four months of 2025, and online sales growth rates for windbreakers priced above 1521 yuan reaching as high as 65%. Such industry data may explain why ECCO, which has deeply cultivated the business footwear sector, suddenly ventures into the trendy outdoor space. Will anyone pay for ECCO outdoor? Since the opening of its first ACTIVELIFESTYLE outdoor store in 2024, ECCO has completed a strategic layout of 20 stores in China. This century-old brand, known for its footwear, is attempting to transition from a "footwear expert" to a "full-scene outdoor lifestyle brand." In terms of product positioning, ECCO is also targeting the mid-to-high-end market. According to a report by Southern Metropolis and Bay Finance, an inquiry into ECCO's official mall reveals that its collaboration series with Japanese brand White Mountaineering features distinctly high-end pricing: sports shoes are priced primarily in the 2000-3000 yuan range, the starting price for the collaboration outerwear series exceeds 2000 yuan, and the pricing for the GORE-TEX professional fabric jackets is as high as nearly 7000 yuan. Such pricing has also sparked considerable controversy in the market. Some industry insiders point out that although ECCO has quickly penetrated the streetwear scene through three collaborations with White Mountaineering, its pricing lacks strong technical endorsement in front of the professional matrix of outdoor sports brands, resulting in insufficient market recognition. Taking trail running shoes as an example, leading brands like Salomon and HOKA often price their main models in the range of 1000-2000 yuan, such as the Salomon Pulsar Trail series and HOKA MAFATE SPEED2, which have become the top choice for runners due to their professional performance and cost-effectiveness. In the jacket market, Arc'teryx's NORVAN SHELL, a GORE-TEX hard shell, is priced around 4500 yuan, while domestic brand Kailas's MONTX series manages to keep the price of jackets made with the same material under 4000 yuan, making them relatively more competitive. However, ECCO's customer base itself possesses strong purchasing power, which may be the confidence behind its positioning of the sports product line as mid-to-high end. However, changing the ECCO customer’s entrenched impression of "comfortable business" to accept its new positioning of "functional outdoor" is bound to be a long and challenging battle. On social media, the consumer choice of "giving up ECCO and turning to Arc'teryx/Descente/Salomon" is frequently seen. As professional outdoor brands like Arc'teryx and Salomon continue to their product lines, ECCO's once core middle-class customer group is facing a sustained diversion crisis. This has compelled the brand to accelerate its transformation pace and seek breakthroughs in the fiercely competitive outdoor market. Financial reports show that from 2021 to 2024, ECCO's revenue in the Greater China region has continued to grow for four consecutive years, increasing from 360 million euros to 418 million euros. However, the trend of slowing growth is also evident. Data indicates that ECCO's revenue growth rate in the Greater China region decreased from 19% in 2021 to 1% in 2024. As of now, ECCO has opened 20 ACTIVELIFESTYLE outdoor flagship stores in China. The brand recently revealed in public reports that it plans to continue expanding in economically vibrant cities with strong consumer spending and will collaborate with leading commercial real estate developers to optimize its market layout.

The world's oldest toy store, Hamleys, recently announced its full-year results for 2024. Despite a challenging environment, company closures, and layoffs, performance has actually improved. Performance recovery in 2024 After a 9.19% drop in sales in 2023, Hamleys finally made a comeback in 2024. As of December 31, 2024, Hamleys' total sales for the year reached £53.3 million (approximately 510 million RMB), an increase of 3.69% compared to £51.4 million in 2023. Moreover, the pre-tax profit soared from a meager £673,000 in 2023 to £3.7 million in 2024 (approximately 35.68 million RMB), growing more than fivefold. In terms of regions, the performance in Europe is good, while the global regions are sluggish. Specifically, the revenue from the UK headquarters increased by £2 million from £43.9 million in 2023, reaching £45.9 million in 2024, accounting for 86.12% of the company's total revenue; the revenue from the rest of Europe surged from £166,000 in 2023 to £832,000 in 2024; however, the revenue from other global regions declined, decreasing from £7.3 million in 2023 to £6.5 million in 2024. The night-time foot traffic at Hamleys' UK store is quite considerable. Efforts to adjust store layout Behind this performance growth is the adjustment of cost reduction and efficiency improvement by Hamleys. In 2024, Hamleys closed 29 underperforming stores worldwide throughout the year, but during the same period, it also opened 22 new stores, indicating its adjustment in store location strategy. Currently, there are 11 stores operating in the UK and a total of 176 franchised stores globally. According to Hamleys' official website, there are 8 stores in China. At the same time, the company made personnel adjustments, laying off 34 people, and the current number of employees is 401. The Hamleys board stated in a statement: "The revenue growth in 2024 is mainly driven by franchise fees, and we are optimistic about the introduction of new areas and the growth in existing regions." Hamres will open a flagship store in 2024 in collaboration with local partners in Italy. Entering 2025, the Hamleys board believes that the UK retail market remains challenging as consumer spending continues to be affected by inflationary pressures. Therefore, the company maintains a cautiously optimistic outlook on business growth and continues to focus on cost optimization to ensure the group's profitability. At the same time, the Hamleys board stated: "We will continue to strive to improve various forms of customer experience and propositions to ensure the long-term sustainability of the business. We remain focused on finding future growth opportunities, and implementing a robust digital strategy is a key growth driver for the UK in 2025." Destined for misfortune, experienced multiple changes of hands. Hamleys is the oldest toy store in the world, founded in 1760. It has withstood global economic recessions and the ravages of world wars, boasting a history of 265 years, though it has changed hands multiple times. In 2003, the Icelandic investment firm Baugur Group privatized Hamleys for £47.4 million. In 2012, it was transferred to Groupe Ludendo for 60 million pounds. In 2015, it was acquired by the Chinese company Qianduoduo for 100 million pounds. In 2018, it was sold for £70 million to Reliance Industries, the largest in India and the second-largest private enterprise in the world, transforming from an authorized operating partner in India to the parent company, continuing to this day. Currently, India is also the country with the most Hamleys stores globally. According to the official website, there are over a hundred stores of all sizes combined.

On July 15, 2025, Medtronic announced that its LigaSure RAS vascular sealing technology for robot-assisted surgery received CE mark certification from the European Union, marking the official entry of this mature vascular sealing technology into the European robot surgery market, to be used in conjunction with Medtronic's self-developed Hugo soft tissue robotic system. LigaSure RAS  This certification further enhances the application capabilities of the Hugo system in multiple surgical procedures, including gynecology, urology, and general surgery, and fulfills Medtronic's commitment to integrating advanced closure technology into the robotic platform. A doctor works at the console of the Medtronic Hugo robotic surgical system. 01 LigaSure technology: 25 years of market validation, first entry into the robotic surgery field. LigaSure is currently the most widely used advanced bipolar energy surgical sealing technology in the world. Since its launch, it has been used in over 35 million surgeries across 65 countries/regions. This technology can achieve precise closure of blood vessels, tissues, and lymphatic vessels under 7mm in about two seconds, while minimizing thermal spread to surrounding tissues, making it highly favored by surgeons. LigaSure series products The LigaSure RAS (Robotically Assisted Surgery) version that has obtained CE certification is specifically designed to be used with robotic-assisted surgery and can be connected to Medtronic's energy platform Valleylab FT10, further enhancing operational efficiency and closure safety in robotic surgery. 02 Experts and executives evaluate: giving robotic surgery higher closure confidence. Surgeon Miguel Caceres from Panama Pacifica Salud Hospital stated, "LigaSure technology is one of the most significant advancements in minimally invasive surgery, giving us confidence in the safety of sealing. As robotic surgeons, we hope that the Hugo system will also have this technology." Matt Anderson, Senior Vice President and President of Medtronic's Surgical business, pointed out: "The approval of LigaSure RAS is a key step in fulfilling our commitment. This is not just about technological integration, but also a positive reflection of our collaboration with surgical teams to shape the future of surgery together." 03 Medtronic Hugo Robot System Progress The Hugo system received its first CE certification in Europe in 2021 and has been implemented in over 30 countries worldwide. Medtronic stated that it expects to launch the Hugo system in the U.S. market by fiscal year 2026 (ending April 2026). The indications for the procedure are urological surgeries, with plans to expand to gynecology and hernia among other fields. In addition, Medtronic also plans to conduct remote surgery demonstrations based on the Hugo system and share the latest clinical data results of gynecological procedures at the recently held annual meeting of the Robotic Surgeons Association.

KSR International, a Ridgetown, Ont.-based automotive parts maker, has been acquired by Angstrom Automotive Group Inc., in a move that expands Angstrom’s product offering, manufacturing footprint, and vertical integration, while deepening business with OEMs. The terms of the deal have not been disclosed. Headquartered in Southfield, Mich., Angstrom is a Tier 1 full-service supplier to automotive and industrial OEMs, producing electrical, metal and resin components within 17 business units across 35 plants globally. The company’s existing Canadian operation, Angstrom Fibre Canada, is located in Brantford, Ont. KSR was founded in 1948 and makes brake, clutch and accelerator pedal modules, also for Tier 1 OEMs. The company has more than 50 patents granted worldwide and manufacturing and engineering facilities in Michigan, Mexico, England, Germany, the Czech Republic, and China.

Recently, Eastman launched the latest innovative product in its sustainable fiber portfolio: Naia Renew, used for filling applications, has not only achieved proven success in the field of bedding and towels but is now transforming bedding and towels with its breathable comfort, luxurious softness, and unparalleled ease of care. This represents a significant development in the application of Naia in home textiles, meeting the growing demand for high-performance and more responsible solutions. Naia Renew fiber is made using Eastman's molecular recycling technology and is produced through GRS-certified mass balance, containing 60% sustainably sourced wood pulp and 40% recycled waste. This innovative process reduces waste and carbon footprint while supporting the circular economy. Naia Renew has already gained recognition for its role in the high-end bedding and towel sectors, and it has now expanded into the filling applications field, setting new standards in comfort, performance, and sustainability. When it comes to performance, Naia Renew offers a unique combination of breathability and moisture management, creating a dry and relaxing sleep environment. As the human body produces moisture throughout the night, effectively managing trapped sweat is crucial for maintaining a peaceful microclimate. Naia achieves this by addressing every stage of moisture control: absorption, transmission, and evaporation. High-performance fibers effectively wick away and disperse moisture, while Naia's quick-drying properties create a continuously dry environment, preventing discomfort and supporting uninterrupted rest. This innovative insulating material features a unique Y-shaped fiber cross-section design, providing a fluffy, soft feel and better warmth retention, inheriting Naia fibers' moisture management and breathability. The fibers effectively absorb moisture without becoming saturated, ensuring lightweight comfort. This enables them to respond to all temperature and humidity changes that occur during the night, perfectly adapting to the body's and rest's needs. Naia Renew enhances the breathability of quilts, improving airflow and humidity management, outperforming traditional single-fiber fillings in vapor resistance and transmission tests. This fiber also delivers an ultimate softness, with a silky lightweight feel that brings unparalleled luxury, gently enveloping the body for exceptional comfort. Naia fibers are hypoallergenic and resistant to bacterial growth, reducing odors and keeping things fresh, ensuring the quilt remains clean and inviting. Additionally, Naia Renew fibers are machine washable and pest-resistant, providing a practical and durable solution for busy modern lifestyles. These features make Naia Renew a game-changer in home textile design, offering "all-night comfort" for bedding and quilt fillings, ensuring more lasting relaxation. About Eastman Eastman was founded in 1920 and is a global specialty materials company that produces a variety of products used in everyday life. Aimed at enhancing the quality of life through material means, Eastman collaborates with customers to provide innovative products and solutions while adhering to commitments to safety and sustainability. The company's innovation-driven growth model leverages world-class technology platforms, deep customer engagement, and differentiated application development to maintain leadership in attractive end markets such as transportation, building and construction, and consumer goods. As a globally inclusive and diverse company, Eastman employs approximately 14,000 people worldwide and serves customers in over 100 countries. The company reported revenues of about $9.2 billion in 2023 and is headquartered in Kingsport, Tennessee, USA.

GMAX Industrial Company, a medical supplies manufacturer headquartered in Hopewell, New York, and with production operations in China, has decided to establish its manufacturing base in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. This move is seen as a strategic initiative to bring manufacturing back to the United States. Currently, GMAX Industrial Company is selecting a site in the region, planning to establish a production, warehousing, and distribution center. It is reported that the project will create 42 new jobs and a total investment of 15 million dollars over the next five years. The business environment is favorable, and the labor force has outstanding skills. Eric Liu, the President and CEO of GMAX, stated: "In evaluating the site selection for our production base in the United States, Winston-Salem stood out due to its well-developed logistics infrastructure, cost-effective business environment, and high-quality workforce. The region brings together the right talent and resources to support our advanced manufacturing processes, making it an ideal place for business development." Eric Liu also mentioned in a press release from North Carolina Governor Josh Stein's office: "In the process of expanding domestic production capacity in the United States, we have always focused on delivering high-quality, reliable medical products more quickly, more controllably, and more flexibly. By investing in domestic production, we can not only strengthen the supply chain but also create jobs in the U.S. and enhance the resilience of the healthcare system." As a certified Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), GMAX Company's products include a variety of medical plastic products (for bedside use), medical sponges, surgical gowns, surgical drapes, and trays for original equipment manufacturers (OEM). Its L'Ange brand baby products are made from six-layer and nine-layer cotton yarn using the "bubble weaving" process, all supplied in medical-grade packaging. Automated production line configuration GMAX Company will produce a variety of critical medical products at its new factory in Winston-Salem, including surgical towels, gauze, surgical drapes, surgical gowns, and disposable syringes. The new factory will be equipped with highly automated production lines, thus requiring engineering technical talent and skilled production personnel. Additionally, positions will be set up for equipment maintenance, warehousing, quality control, and other roles, with an average annual salary of $63,810. GMAX Industrial Company has received a performance grant of $75,000 from the "North Carolina Integrated Fund." The project has received support from multiple parties, including the North Carolina Economic Development Partnership, the North Carolina Department of Commerce, the North Carolina General Assembly, the North Carolina Community College System, Forsyth Technical Community College, Forsyth County, the City of Winston-Salem, and Greater Winston-Salem, Inc.

Ampacet, a global masterbatch leader,  has introduced ProVital+ Gamma-Protect, a medical-grade additive designed to preserve mechanical and optical properties of polypropylene-based medical and pharmaceutical articles during gamma and e-beam sterilisation processes. PHOTO: Ampacet Gamma and e-beam sterilisation techniques are commonly used by the medical industry to eliminate microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses and spores from medical devices, in-vitro diagnostic equipment and packaging systems. However, gamma and e-beam sterilisation methods are known to alter the optical and mechanical properties of the polymers, including elongation, tensile and impact strength. Ampacet ProVital+ Gamma-Protect is an efficient medical grade additive solution that stabilises polypropylene during gamma or e-beam sterilisation processes and helps to preserve mechanical and optical properties and prevent degradation of the polymer. Applications include medical devices, in-vitro diagnostic equipment and pharmaceutical packaging systems. Ampacet ProVital+ Gamma-Protect has also been successfully pre-evaluated for biocompatibility according to ISO 10993 part 5, 10 and 23 (cytotoxicity, sensitisation and irritation) at a letdown ratio of 5%. Ampacet ProVital+ Gamma-Protect provides full consistency of formulation with a no-change policy for raw materials at CAS and commercial levels, with manufacturing under consistent process parameters and cleanroom production to minimise cross contamination risks.

International News Digest: Raw Materials - Dow Launches INNATE™ TF 220 Resin to Enable Recyclable BOPE Film Innovation Circular Economy - Toyobo and DMC Biotechnologies to use biotech to make plastic raw materials Automotive - Elton Manufacturing buys U.S.-based Decatur Plastic Products Additives - Songwon To Highlight Stabilizer Technologies and Performance Additives at K2025 Macro - Trump: "Major Announcement" on Russia Coming Next Monday Price - USD/CNY Central Parity at 7.1475, Up 35 Pips   the Details of International News: 1.Dow Launches INNATE™ TF 220 Resin to Enable Recyclable BOPE Film Innovation Dow Inc. announced a major technological breakthrough with INNATE™ TF 220 resin, offering a high-performance, recyclable-design biaxially oriented polyethylene (BOPE) film solution for flexible packaging. From material design to end-of-life recycling, Dow is collaborating with partners across the packaging value chain to develop scalable sustainable solutions, translating environmental vision into commercial practice. 2. Toyobo and DMC Biotechnologies to use biotech to make plastic raw materials Toyobo recently signed a joint research and development contract related to biomanufacturing with DMC Biotechnologies, a U.S. biotech venture company based in Colorado. The two companies aim to develop and commercialize sustainable key chemical compounds to be used as raw materials for general-purpose plastics by applying synthetic biology technologies to microorganisms. 3. Elton Manufacturing buys U.S.-based Decatur Plastic Products The acquisition is Mississauga, Ont.-based Elton's first major expansion into the American market.In a move that marks its first major expansion into the U.S., Elton Manufacturing, a Mississauga, Ont.-based supplier of weatherstripping and windows for garage and entry doors, has acquired weatherstripping and door window supplier Decatur Plastic Products Inc. (DPP), of North Vernon, Ind. 4. Avient Launches Oxygen Scavenger to Enhance PET Packaging Recyclability Avient has launched an oxygen-scavenging additive designed specifically to enhance the recyclability of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) packaging while extending product shelf life. ColorMatrix Amosorb Oxyloop-1 is the first grade in Avient's new Oxyloop portfolio of oxygen scavengers. 5.TEAM Technologies Announces Acquisition of Duke Empirical TEAM Technologies, a provider of end-to-end outsourcing manufacturing services for critical medical devices, announced the acquisition of Duke Empirical. Duke Empirical is a designer, developer, and manufacturer of innovative medical devices, specializing in high-end catheters and minimally invasive delivery systems. The acquisition further expands TEAM’s capabilities in the minimally invasive medical, cardiology, and interventional therapy markets. 6. EU Adopts New Auto Circular Economy Rules to Drive Lifecycle Green Transition The European Parliament’s Committee on the Environment (ENVI) and Committee on the Internal Market (IMCO) recently voted to adopt new regulations aimed at comprehensively transforming Europe’s automotive industry toward a circular economy. Covering the entire lifecycle of vehicles from design, production to end-of-life treatment, the regulations include several specific requirements. Under the draft, automakers must design new models with easily detachable components, ensuring authorized treatment facilities (ATFs) can reuse, remanufacture, refurbish, or recycle parts (where technically feasible). Additionally, software restrictions that hinder the replacement or removal of individual components are prohibited. 7.Songwon To Highlight Stabilizer Technologies and Performance Additives at K2025 Songwon Industrial highlights its commitment to the industry and customers at K 2025. As the chemical industry grows more regulated and competitive, customers face pressure to improve performance, focus on sustainability, adapt quickly to changing requirements and maintain continuity. 8.Braskem to expand PE plant capacity in Duque de Caxias Braskem launches Transforma Rio project to expand the polyethylene (PE) p Braskem to expand PE plant capacity in Duque de Caxias.Braskem launches Transforma Rio project to expand the polyethylene (PE) plant in Duque de Caxias. The project was announced at the official ceremony hosted by Petrobras in Rio de Janeiro.   Overseas Macro Updates: Houthi Rebels Continue to Ban Israeli-Related Vessels Reports indicate that Houthi leader Abdul-Malik al-Houthi stated on July 10 that the group will continue to ban Israeli-related ships from passing through the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and Arabian Sea as long as Israel continues its aggression and blockade of Gaza. No one is allowed to transport Israeli-related goods through these waters. Within a week, Yemeni Houthi rebels sank two cargo ships in the Red Sea. The UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Yemen emphasized the need to ensure freedom of navigation in the Red Sea, protect civilian infrastructure, and prevent Yemen from being drawn into a larger regional conflict. Trump: "Major Announcement" on Russia Coming Next Monday U.S. President Trump revealed on July 10 local time that he will make a "major announcement" on Russia next Monday (July 14 local time). In a phone interview with U.S. media, Trump stated that the current Russian airstrikes on Ukraine have intensified, adding that he is "disappointed" with Russian President Putin and describing Putin as "polite in words but without substance." Second Round of China-Switzerland FTA Upgrade Negotiations Held in Switzerland From July 7 to 10, the second round of negotiations on upgrading the China-Switzerland Free Trade Agreement was held in Geneva, Switzerland. The two sides held in-depth discussions on issues including trade in goods, trade in services, investment, rules of origin, trade facilitation, competition, environment and trade, and economic and technological cooperation, achieving positive progress.   Price information:   USD/CNY Central Parity 7.1475, up 35 pips; previous trading day’s central parity 7.1510, previous trading day’s official closing price 7.1776, overnight closing price 7.1780.  Raw Materials USD Market Prices Ethylene Asia: CFR Northeast Asia $820/tonne; CFR Southeast Asia $830/tonne. Propylene Northeast Asia: FOB Korea average price $740/tonne; CFR China average price $775/tonne. North Asia frozen cargo CIF price: propane $538-540/tonne; butane $508-510/tonne. South China frozen cargo for first half of August CIF price: propane $567-574/tonne; butane $537-544/tonne. Taiwan region frozen cargo CIF price: propane $538-540/tonne; butane $508-510/tonne. LLDPE USD Market Prices Film: $875-910/tonne (CFR Huangpu); Injection molding: $950/tonne (CFR Dongguan). HDPE USD Market Prices Film: $920/tonne (CFR Huangpu); Hollow: $855-860/tonne (CFR Huangpu). LDPE USD Market Prices Film: $1,070-1,110/tonne (CFR Huangpu); Coating: $1,350/tonne (CFR Huangpu). PP USD Market Prices Homopolymer: $935-980/tonne (CFR Huangpu); Copolymer: $965-995/tonne (CFR Huangpu); Film material: $1,000/tonne (CFR Huangpu); Transparent: $1,085/tonne (CFR Huangpu); Pipe material: $1,160/tonne (CFR Shanghai).

TEAM Technologies, an end-to-end outsourced manufacturer of mission-critical medical devices, has announced the acquisition of Duke Empirical, Inc., a designer, developer, and manufacturer of innovative medical devices focused on advanced catheters and minimally invasive delivery systems. This acquisition marks an expansion of TEAM’s capabilities in the minimally invasive, cardiology, and interventional markets. Duke says it is recognised for its deep technical expertise and innovation in catheter design, complex medical extrusion, and high precision assembly. The company serves top-tier global OEMs with a suite of capabilities, proprietary technologies, and a ‘state-of-the-art’ facility. Specifically, Duke manufactures a variety of catheters, including those used for minimally invasive structural heart, cardiovascular, neurovascular, urology and kidney-related procedures, while offering custom design and development services for catheter-based medical devices including guide catheters, balloon dilation catheters, and ultrasound catheters. “This is a pivotal step in our strategy to become the full service partner of choice for healthcare OEMs in high-growth, high-acuity end markets,” commented Marshall White, President and CEO of TEAM Tech. “With Duke’s complementary capabilities and innovative solutions, we are expanding the breadth and depth of services we offer to our partners while advancing our mission of Helping Those Who Help Others.” Duke says its devices play a critical role in minimally invasive procedures, particularly in interventional and structural heart applications. Its advanced catheter systems, including custom and steerable designs, enable clinicians to navigate complexity and deliver therapies with precision in high-risk cardiovascular interventions according to the company. These ‘mission-critical’ components improve access, efficiency, and outcomes in life-saving procedures. “We’re thrilled to bring our expertise in minimally invasive device design, development and manufacturing to TEAM’s platform,” said Robert LaDuca, Duke’s Founder and CEO. “This partnership gives us the scale, talent, and infrastructure to continue driving innovation and improve outcomes for patients worldwide.” Houlihan Lokey served as financial advisor and Goodwin Procter LLP served as legal advisor to TEAM Technologies and Arlington Capital Partners.

Real-Time Innovations (RTI), a software framework company for physical AI systems, has announced its partnership with Kinova, a global leader in professional and medical robotics. The collaboration will aim to provide seamless integration of advanced robotic technologies with data-centric connectivity to simplify and accelerate product lifecycles, reduce program risk, and ‘redefine what is possible’ in a new era of physical AI in advanced systems such as surgical robotics. photo：Gorodenkoff  Building on the experience of both companies in robotics and intelligent and distributed systems, the integration of RTI Connext with Kinova simplifies and accelerates the design of next-generation platforms says the companies. This collaboration enables the integration of robotics into a larger digital ecosystem that integrates visualisation, AI, sensing, with real-time data interoperability. Recently both RTI and Kinova were announced as participants in NVIDIA’s Isaac for Healthcare program. This collaboration will be on display during a joint remote teleoperation demo in booth #065 at the Surgical Robotics Society Annual Meeting in Strasbourg, France. Developed in collaboration with MedAcuity, the demo allows attendees to use a haptic controller to manipulate a Kinova robotic arm located 3,000 miles away.  “This partnership reinforces our mission to accelerate the development of innovative, high-performance medical robotic systems,” said François Boucher, Vice President of Business Development at Kinova. “By combining Kinova’s expertise in surgical-grade robotics with RTI’s real-time connectivity framework, we’re enabling our customers to bring next-generation solutions to market faster and with greater confidence.” Bob Leigh, Senior Director of Commercial Markets at RTI added: “Our customers are solving the incredibly complex technical challenges that live at the intersection of robotics, connectivity, and AI. This collaboration gives them the infrastructure to focus on innovation—whether that’s enabling teleoperation, improving operational precision, or accelerating integration across diverse hardware and software environments.”

International News Digest: Raw Material News: Europe’s Chemicals Sector Suffers Another SetbackAutomotive News: BYD's "Shenzhen" Departs for Europe, Carrying Over 6,800 New Energy VehiclesAdditives News: Clariant ShiftMax™ 100 RE Reverse Water-Gas Shift Catalyst Empowers INERATEC's Pioneering E-Fuel PlantAerospace News: Arkema and Hexcel Achieve Breakthrough in Aerospace Thermoplastic Composite TechnologyMacro News: ING: India Could Be the Next Country to Reach a Trade Deal With the USPrice Information: Central Parity Rate of RMB Against USD Reported at 7.1541, Down 7 Pips   The following are details of international news: 1.Europe’s Chemicals Sector Suffers Another SetbackVynova Announced Today That It Will Cease PVC Production at Its Site in Beek, Netherlands, by November 2025. It’s the Second Shutdown of Europe-Based Chemicals Production Plants Announced in as Many Days: Dow Said Yesterday It Will Close Two Plants in Germany and One in the UK. Challenging Market Dynamics Are Cited as the Reason for These Closures. 2. US EVA Exports Plummeted by 14%! According to the Data of the United States International Trade Commission, the Export Volume of EVA in the US Fell by 14% to 46,000 Tons in the First Quarter of 2025, the Import Volume Fell by 17%, and the Price Fell by 5.6% (the Spot Price of Medium-Grade EVA in Houston Port Fell to USD 1175/ton). Traders Bluntly Said, 'No Goods to Asia', the Focus of Exports Was Forced to Turn to Latin America, Africa and Europe-Middle East-Africa (EMEA) Markets. 3. Clariant ShiftMax™ 100 RE Reverse Water-Gas Shift Catalyst Empowers INERATEC's Pioneering E-Fuel PlantClariant Announced Today That Its ShiftMax 100 RE Catalyst Powers INERATEC's Advanced Power-to-Liquids Fuel Plant "ERA ONE" Located in the Frankfurt-Höchst Industrial Park in Germany. The Facility Was Officially Put Into Operation on June 3, With an Annual Carbon Dioxide Processing Capacity of Approximately 8,000 Tons, Which Can Be Converted to Produce Up to 2,500 Tons of Synthetic Fuels and Wax Products. This Production Scale Makes It One of the World's Largest Operating "Power-to-Liquids" Projects and Establishes the Key Position of the Two Companies in the Field of Sustainable Fuel Technology Innovation. 4.Avantium Signs Bio-Based FDCA Offtake Agreement With PLIXXENT for Use in Insulating Polyurethane Foam Production Avantium, a Leading Renewable and Circular Polymer Materials Company, and PLIXXENT, a Leading Polyurethane Systems Company, Have Signed a Conditional Five-Year Offtake Agreement. Under the Agreement, PLIXXENT Will Purchase FDCA (2,5-Furandicarboxylic Acid) Produced by Avantium's Flagship Plant for the Production of Insulating Polyurethane Foam. PLIXXENT's Evaluation Confirmed That FDCA Performs Excellently in Polyester Polyols and Their Derived Insulating Polyurethane Foams. Compared With Traditional Petrochemical-Based Polyurethane Foams, FDCA-Based Polyurethane Foams Have Significant Environmental Advantages, Meeting the Growing Market Demand for Environmentally Friendly Building Materials. In Addition, They Exhibit Excellent Performance in Key Thermal Insulation Indicators Such as Thermal Conductivity and Flame Retardancy, While Also Providing Excellent Mechanical Strength and Dimensional Stability to Ensure the Long-Term Integrity and Effectiveness of the Foam Structure. 5. Joint Technical Paper to Help Companies With New REACH Labelling Requirement A Group of European Plastics Trade Bodies Have Published Guidance for Businesses in the Run-Up to a New Labelling Regime, Due to Come Into Effect in October This Year, Spelling Out How to Reveal the Level of Microplastics in Certain Products. The Organisations Said the Document Is Designed to Support Polymer Producers, Compounders, Masterbatchers, and Converters as They Prepare for New Labelling Obligations, Which Are to Come Into Effect on 17 October 2025. 6. Arkema and Hexcel Achieve Breakthrough in Aerospace Thermoplastic Composite Technology Recently, Hexcel Showcased New Carbon Fiber-Reinforced PEKK Composite Components Developed in Collaboration With Arkema, Revealing the Breakthrough Progress of Both Parties in the Field of Thermoplastic Composites. The Helues Project, Funded by the German Aerospace Center and Supported by the Bavarian State Ministry of Economic Affairs, Brings Together Partners Such as Airbus Helicopters Germany GmbH, Neue Materialien Bayreuth GmbH, Christian Karl Siebenwurst GmbH & Co. KG, and Incoe Corporation. It Has Pioneered a New Manufacturing Process for High-Temperature Thermoplastic Composites Worldwide, With the Core Technology Being One-Step Molding and Injection Overmolding. The Technology Uses HexPly® Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Kepstan® PEKK Unidirectional Tapes and Kepstan™ PEKK Injection Compounds as Raw Materials, Enabling the Production of a Complex Structural Part With Reinforcing Ribs and Functional Components in as Little as 2 Minutes. 7. BYD's "Shenzhen" Departs for Europe, Carrying Over 6,800 New Energy Vehicles Caixin News Agency Reported on July 9 That the World's Second-Largest Car Carrier — BYD's "Shenzhen" Ro-Ro Ship, Loaded With Over 6,800 BYD New Energy Vehicles, Departed From Shenzhen Xiaomo International Logistics Port for Europe, Scheduled to Call at the Port of Zeebrugge in Belgium. Overseas macro market information: ING: India Could Be the Next Country to Reach a Trade Deal With the US Deepali Bhargava, Head of Asia-Pacific Research at ING, Said That India Will Be the Next Country to Reach a Trade Deal With the US. Trump Recently Stated That the US Is Almost Reaching a Deal With India. Bhargava Said That India Is One of the First Countries to Start Trade Negotiations With the US. India Has Recently Offered Tariff Concessions in Politically and Economically Sensitive Industries Including Agriculture and Dairy Products. If India Makes Some Concessions on Agricultural Product Imports, the Two Countries May Reach an Agreement Soon. IDC: Global PC Shipments Grew 6.5% Year-on-Year in Q2 According to the Latest Preliminary Results of the Global Personal Computing Device Quarterly Tracking Data From the International Data Corporation (IDC), Global PC Shipments Grew 6.5% Year-on-Year in the Second Quarter of 2025, Reaching 68.4 Million Units. Import Tariff Policies Have Begun to Show Effects, and While Demand Remains Strong in Other Regions, Growth in the US PC Market Has Slowed. EU Negotiators Are Close to Reaching a Trade Deal With Trump According to the Financial Times, EU Negotiators Are Close to Reaching a Trade Deal With Trump, Which Will Confirm That the EU Faces Higher Tariffs Than the UK. US to Impose 25% Tariffs on Japan, Ishiba Shigeru Makes Tough Statement: Never Compromise Regarding the US Plan to Impose 25% Tariffs on Japan, Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru Said That Japan Will Unite Domestically to Safeguard National Interests and Will Not Compromise on Issues That Cannot Be Compromised, and Will Never Sacrifice Japan's Agriculture. Price information: Central Parity Rate of RMB Against USD: The Central Parity Rate of RMB Against USD Was Reported at 7.1541, Down 7 Pips; the Central Parity Rate of the Previous Trading Day Was 7.1534, the Official Closing Price of the Previous Trading Day Was 7.1732, and the Night Session Closing Price Was 7.1780. Raw Material USD Market Prices: Ethylene Asia: CFR Northeast Asia $820/ton; CFR Southeast Asia $830/ton.Propylene Northeast Asia: FOB Korea Average $740/ton; CFR China Average $785/ton.North Asia Frozen Cargo CIF, Propane $534-536/ton; Butane $504-506/ton.South China Frozen Cargo CIF for Early August, Propane $563-570/ton; Butane $533-540/ton.Taiwan Region Frozen Cargo CIF, Propane $534-536/ton; Butane $504-506/ton. LLDPE USD Market Prices: Film: $875-910/ton (CFR Huangpu), Down $20/ton;Injection Molding: $950/ton (CFR Dongguan). HDPE USD Market Prices: Film: $920/ton (CFR Huangpu);Blow Molding: $855-860/ton (CFR Huangpu).LDPE USD Market Prices:Film: $1,080-1,110/ton (CFR Huangpu);Coating: $1,350/ton (CFR Huangpu). PP USD Market Prices: Homopolymer: $935-980/ton (CFR Huangpu);Copolymer: $965-995/ton (CFR Huangpu);Film Grade: $1,000/ton (CFR Huangpu);Transparent Grade: $1,085/ton (CFR Huangpu);Pipe Grade: $1,160/ton (CFR Shanghai).  

Mechanical recycler Grannex has invested around EUR 20 mn in expanding its recycling capacity at its Osnabrück site. After testing its proprietary recycling process at a pilot plant, Grannex has now scaled up the technology, the company said. At the beginning of 2025, the first full-scale facility based on this process was completed and has recently entered regular operation with a capacity of 16,000 t/y. The new method can also be used to mechanically process engineering plastics from unsorted waste streams (Photo: Grannex) “With the new production line, we’re investing in the future of mechanical plastics recycling,” said Grannex managing director Markus Börger. The patented process – developed primarily by Börger – combines shredding, washing, and sorting in a modular system. According to the company, this setup also allows for the processing of unsorted, heavily contaminated, complex plastics waste mixtures.“This enables Grannex not only to recycle polyolefin-based mixtures with varying proportions of 2D and 3D materials – such as polypropylene, polyethylene, and films – but also to extract engineering plastics like ABS from heterogeneous waste streams and return them to the product cycle,” added Hendrik Scheuschner, who was appointed as an additional managing director in 2023.The total processing capacity at the Osnabrück site now stands at 20,000 t/y.

International News Digest:   Raw Materials - Acquisition Completed! BASF Fully Owns Nylon Intermediate JV Alsachimie Automotive - SK chemicals Signs Exclusive Deal with Durmont to Supply Recycled PET for Car Carpets Medical -Swiss medtech manufacturer opens first production facility in China / Expansion also planned for USA Macro - Goldman Sachs: OPEC+ Output Hike Unlikely to Jolt Market if Decided Sunday Price - USD/CNY Central Parity at 7.1546, Down 12 Pips   International News Details   1. Trump's "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" Passed The Trump administration's "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" was passed by the U.S. Senate. Dubbed a 2.0 version of the "America First" policy, this massive tax and spending bill cleared a procedural vote in the Senate on June 28, 2025, by a 51-49 margin, and was finalized on July 1 with a 51-50 vote (with Republican Vice President Vance casting the tiebreaker). The House passed an earlier version in May by 215-214 and is expected to vote on the Senate-amended bill on July 3, aiming for Trump's signature by July 4.   2. Deadline Looms for Talks; Trump Rules Out Extending Tariff Grace Period U.S. President Trump said on Tuesday (July 1) he has no plans to extend the tariff grace period ending July 9. In April, Trump imposed "reciprocal tariffs" on nearly all trading partners (rates tied to their U.S. trade deficits), later temporarily cutting them to 10% during negotiations. "No, I'm not considering a pause. I'll be sending letters to many countries," Trump said, referring to notices on July 9 informing nations of their applicable tariff rates.   3. Acquisition Completed! BASF Fully Owns Nylon Intermediate JV Alsachimie BASF announced on July 1 it has acquired DOMO Chemicals' 49% stake in Alsachimie, making it the sole owner (up from 51% previously). The deal complements BASF's recent moves to strengthen PA66 production at its Chalampé site, following the June 12 launch of a world-class hexamethylenediamine (HMD) plant in France (boosting annual HMD capacity to 260,000 tons). Expansion of PA66 capacity at Freiburg, Germany, is also in final stages.   4. States Crack Down on Single-use Plastics Starting July 1 Several states are implementing new packaging-related laws effective today, July 1, including extended producer responsibility requirements and bans on specific single-use items. These laws potentially could have a ripple effect on plastics processors.   5. SK chemicals Signs Exclusive Deal with Durmont to Supply Recycled PET for Car Carpets SK chemicals signed an exclusive agreement with Austrian automotive carpet maker Durmont and South Korean logistics firm Paarang at its Seoul ECOLAB headquarters. The trio has developed yarns, carpets, and floor mats using SK chemicals' CR (chemical recycling) PET solution, meeting automotive testing and quality standards. Under the deal, SK chemicals will supply Durmont with SKYPET® CR – a 100% recycled, ISCC PLUS-certified, fully recyclable material – to accelerate supply chain development and market promotion.   6. IMCD Acquires Apus Química, a Plastics and Rubber Developer IMCD N.V. has announced the acquisition of 100% of the shares in Apus Química SpA.Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Santiago, Chile, Apus Quimica specializes in the distribution and development of performance chemicals for the rubber, plastics and chemical sectors. With two warehouses, Apus Quimica serves the Chilean markets with a strong portfolio.   7.Toy Giant Posts 7th Consecutive Profit Growth, Staff Reaches 1,689 The Lego Group reported its 7th straight UK sales record, with plans to move to a new London headquarters by 2027. Lego UK's 2024 pre-tax profit rose to £42.9 million (from £24.2 million in 2023), with revenue exceeding £501.7 million (up from £449.2 million) – marking seven years of consecutive sales and profit growth.   8. Nike Struggles with $1B Tariff Losses; China Supply Chain Share Slashed Nike expects up to $1 billion in losses for fiscal 2026 due to tariffs (equivalent to three months of China profits). Its China supply chain share, currently 16%, is set to halve as production shifts to Vietnam, Indonesia, etc., targeting below 10%.   9. Swiss medtech manufacturer opens first production facility in China / Expansion also planned for USA On 26 June, Ypsomed officially opened its first production facility in China. As announced by the company, the new plant is located in the industrial park in Changzhou, Jiangsu, and comprises around 15,000 m² of production, storage, and office space. In future, up to 100 mn injection systems are to be manufactured there annually for the Chinese market.   Overseas macro market information:   Goldman Sachs: OPEC+ Output Hike Unlikely to Jolt Market if Decided Sunday Goldman Sachs said a potential OPEC+ decision to boost production on Sunday would likely have a muted market impact. India Launches Domestic Rare Earth Production Boost Plan India, the world's third-largest rare earth reserve holder, plans to invest ₹35-50 billion to reduce reliance on China, aiming to become a key alternative supplier. Analysts note this requires more investment and breakthroughs in mining/processing technologies. Intel Reportedly Considering Adjusting Wafer Foundry Strategy Intel's CEO is weighing changes to its foundry strategy, potentially skipping the 18A process for new clients and moving directly to 14A. The board may discuss 18A's future this month, with asset impairments potentially costing hundreds of millions.   Price information:   【USD/CNY Central Parity Rate】The central parity rate of RMB against USD is quoted at 7.1546, down 12 pips; the central parity rate of the previous trading day was 7.1534, the official closing price of the previous trading day was 7.1618, and the overnight closing price was 7.1650.   【Raw Materials USD Market Prices】 Ethylene Asia: CFR Northeast Asia 850 USD/ton; CFR Southeast Asia 860 USD/ton. Propylene Northeast Asia: FOB Korea average price 745 USD/ton; CFR China average price 795 USD/ton. North Asia frozen cargo CIF price, propane 533-535 USD/ton; butane 506-508 USD/ton. South China frozen cargo for first half of August CIF price, propane 562-572 USD/ton; butane 527-537 USD/ton. Taiwan region frozen cargo CIF price, propane 533-535 USD/ton; butane 506-508 USD/ton.   【LLDPE USD Market Prices】 Film: 875-930 USD/ton (CFR Huangpu), down 5 USD/ton; Injection molding: 940 USD/ton (CFR Dongguan);   【HDPE USD Market Prices】 Film: 910-930 USD/ton (CFR Huangpu); Hollow: 860-870 USD/ton (CFR Huangpu);   【LDPE USD Market Prices】 Film: 1080-1090 USD/ton (CFR Huangpu), down 10 USD/ton; Coating: 1350 USD/ton (CFR Huangpu)   【PP USD Market Prices】 Homopolymer: 935-980 USD/ton (CFR Huangpu); Copolymer: 965-995 USD/ton (CFR Huangpu); Film material: 1000 USD/ton (CFR Huangpu); Transparent: 1085 USD/ton (CFR Huangpu); Pipe material: 1160 USD/ton (CFR Shanghai).

On 26 June, Ypsomed officially opened its first production facility in China. As announced by the company, the new plant is located in the industrial park in Changzhou, Jiangsu, and comprises around 15,000 m² of production, storage, and office space. In future, up to 100 mn injection systems are to be manufactured there annually for the Chinese market. “With local production, we can respond more quickly to customer needs, minimise logistics risks, and provide our products more efficiently and sustainably,” said Simon Michel, CEO of Ypsomed (Photo: Ypsomed) Currently, 50 employees are working on site, with the workforce expected to grow to around 100 by the end of the year. The company said it is investing approximately CHF 150 mn (EUR 160 mn) in the location. Ypsomed has also secured an additional 30,000 m² of land for future expansion. The facility is certified to the international ISO 13485 standard for medical devices by TÜV Süd. Production of the first commercial batches is already underway.Ypsomed is also expanding its production capacity in other regions. In the US, a potential first manufacturing site is in the advanced stages of evaluation, with the project expected to launch later this year. The company has not yet disclosed specific details, however. In Schwerin, Germany, the foundation stone for a second plant was laid in spring 2025. Capacity is also being expanded at the existing sites in Burgdorf and Solothurn, Switzerland.In the past financial year, the medical-technology company significantly increased both revenue and profit. For the current 2025/26 financial year (ending 31 March), Ypsomed is forecasting revenue growth of around 20%.As early as November 2024, Ypsomed announced that it would strategically focus on self-injection solutions going forward. As part of this shift, the diabetes business – including the insulin pump division – was sold.

US masterbatch and compounds specialist Americhem  has announced plans to consolidate its European activities under the Americhem brand as it moves to align operations across global quality and manufacturing standards. The company said its European activities will be aligned under the Americhem brand (Photo: Americhem) The majority family-owned company designs and manufactures custom colour masterbatches, functional additives, synthetic fibres, and TPEs at seven US locations, along with one each in China and India. In 2020, it added its first and as yet only European base, at Ribe, Denmark, with the acquisition of Danish masterbatch manufacturer Controlled Polymers .At Ribe, where Americhem has meanwhile expanded capacity, the company produces compounds for hearing aids, surgical tools, and drug delivery. To support its healthcare business, the site is certified according to ISO 13485.The Ohio firm noted that it also has replicated its clean compounding developed in North America and has plans for expansion in Asia.Key focus areas for Americhem in Europe additionally extend to manmade fibres and building products, where the US producer said that material durability, colour precision, and speed-to-market “matter most.” It also has local teams operating “fully within the company global systems.”The European streamlining is also designed to advance Americhem’s 2030 sustainability goals, the company said. The Danish plants run on 100% renewable electricity and on-site solar, while energy-efficient technologies such as ColdPound are claimed to reduce usage by up to 85% compared with traditional extrusion. PPC engagement sealed In February 2025, Americhem signed a definitive agreement with compatriot private equity investor Pritzker Private Capital (PPC) calling for the transfer of an undisclosed majority stake. On 13 March, Pritzker announced that the transaction had been completed.PPC said its investment and partnership will provide additional financial resources and expertise. The aim is for the business to accelerate growth, innovation, and expansion across Americhem’s end markets and sales offices located throughout North America, Europe, and Asia.The investor added that Americhem’s current leadership team, including CEO John Richard, will continue to guide the company. Founding family member Rick Juve will remain “a committed owner and steward” on the board of directors, it said.

International News Guide  - Raw Materials - Awaiting Rare Earth "Arrival"? US Approves Ethane Ships but Bans Unloading!  - Policy - Bombshell! Trump Says US Has Signed Agreement with China, Provides No Details  - Medical - 3D Systems Advances Bioprinting for "First-of-its-Kind" Nerve Repair  - Macro - To Push Iran Back to Nuclear Talks, US Considers Easing Sanctions and Facilitating $30B Investment  - Price - USD/CNY Central Parity at 7.1627, Down 7 Pips    International News Details    1. Bombshell! Trump Says US Has Signed Agreement with China, Provides No Details  US President Trump said Thursday the US had signed an agreement with China a day earlier but gave no specifics.  "Everyone wants a deal, wants to be part of it, right? I know (US Trade Representative) Jamieson Greer, (Commerce Secretary) Howard Lettnick, and (Treasury Secretary) Scott Bessent are working overtime to reach agreements with other countries," Trump said. "Remember months ago the media asked if we'd really found interested parties? Now we signed with China yesterday, didn't we?"  He added: "We're starting to open the Chinese market—things that were impossible before are happening now."  Trump made the remarks at a White House event to push lawmakers to pass a government spending bill by July 4.    2. Dr. Coffee enhanced food safety in commercial coffee machines with INEOS Styrolution's Zylar® MBS Dr. Coffee, a leading manufacturer of commercial coffee machines in China, has collaborated with INEOS Styrolution to utilize Zylar® MBS for key food contact components in its new line of premium coffee machines, launched worldwide. This partnership highlights the value of Zylar® MBS, which provides brand owners with a commitment to food safety and superior performance.   3. Awaiting Rare Earth "Arrival"? US Approves Ethane Ships but Bans Unloading!  Reuters reported the US Department of Commerce Wednesday issued permits to Enterprise Products (EPD.N) and Energy Transfer (ET.N) allowing ethane loading onto ships bound for China, but banning unloading at Chinese ports without extra authorization. Notably, on June 19, China's Ministry of Commerce said it was accelerating reviews of rare earth export license applications, having approved a certain number of compliant applications and continuing to strengthen approvals.  On the 26th, domestic firm Satellite Chemical reposted *Ethane Embargo Tensions Ease* via its official WeChat, stating the only restriction was the final "step" of unloading— a vague state typical of policy relaxation signals.    4. UBE Launches Bio-Circular Caprolactam and Recycled PA Composites  UBE Corporation announced that its bio-circular caprolactam produced by UBE Corporation Europe S.A.U. and recycled polyamide composites DINALON® A2X25-MI H-4109 (PA66) and B2E25 G20DI-4115 (PA6) by UBE Composites Europe S.L.U. have obtained U-BE-INFINITY® eco-product brand certification.  UBE grants this brand to R&D achievements and products with outstanding environmental contributions to enhance their value, committing to solving global environmental issues through U-BE-INFINITY® branded products.    5. Malaysia will stop accepting U.S. plastic waste, creating a dilemma for California    Malaysia will ban plastic waste imports from the U.S. starting Tuesday because of America’s failure to abide by the Basel Convention treaty on international waste transfers, in a move that could have significant consequences for California.   6. Sabic to permanently close steam cracker at Wilton, UK Sabic will permanently close its 865,000 metric tons per year Olefins 6 steam cracker at Wilton, UK, the company said in a statement June 25. The unit has an annual nameplate production capacity of 865,000 metric tons of ethylene, 415,000 metric tons of propylene and 100,000 metric tons of butadiene, according to data from Platts, part of S&P Global Commodity Insights.     7. 3D Systems advances bioprinting tech for ‘first-of-its-kind’ nerve repair 3D Systems announced that its 3D bioprinting technologies have enabled FDA approval for the regenerative repair of peripheral nerve damage. For the last several years, 3D Systems has partnered with TISSIUM, a French MedTech company that is a pioneer in the development of biomorphic programmable polymers for tissue reconstruction, to develop a bespoke 3D printing solution for the repair of damaged peripheral nerves. 8. Circ Partners with Selenis to Scale Recycled PET from Cotton-Polyester Blends  Under a new strategic agreement, Portuguese firm Selenis will toll process and polymerize thousands of tons of Circ polyester annually at industrial scale. The news follows French President Macron's May announcement of a €450 million investment in a new French plant using US-based Circ's cotton-polyester blend recycling technology.  The new cross-industry collaboration enables Circ to leverage Selenis' mature polymerization infrastructure and expertise to convert recycled monomers from used textiles into high-quality Circ recycled PET for sportswear, basics, and fashion. The final result integrates scalable circular solutions into current supply chains.         Overseas Macro Updates    Japanese Finance Minister: Government Cannot Implement Bond Repurchases Currently  Finance Minister Katsunobu Kato: The government cannot implement bond repurchases now; will continue considering the possibility. Will monitor developments on the US "retaliatory tax" proposal.    Tokyo Inflation Slows for First Time in Four Months as Energy Costs Ease Before Elections  Tokyo inflation slowed for the first time in four months due to moderating energy price gains and the Tokyo municipal government's partial water fee waiver for households ahead of national elections.    Thai Finance Minister Announces Trade Talks in US Next Week  Thai Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira told reporters Friday he will depart for trade talks in the US next week, confirming the dates but not details.  Thailand faces a critical window—if it fails to reach a tariff reduction agreement before the July suspension period ends, its exports will be hit with 36% US tariffs, severely impacting the export-reliant economy. During the current suspension, most countries enjoy a 10% baseline rate.  Goldman Sachs: Options Market Shows Low Likelihood of Hormuz Oil Disruption  Goldman Sachs reported the options market gives a 60% probability Brent crude will stay at $60-70/barrel in three months, with 28% chance of exceeding $70.    Report: US Considers Easing Sanctions on Iran to Push Nuclear Talks, Facilitate $30B Investment  CNN cited four sources Thursday that the Trump administration is considering measures to bring Iran back to the negotiating table, including easing sanctions, helping Iran secure up to $30 billion in "civil nuclear program" investment, and unfreezing billions in restricted funds. A Trump administration official said proposals have been put forward but are in the preliminary stage and evolving, with the US demand for "zero uranium enrichment" remaining unchanged.    Trump Says "Very Big" Trade Deal with India Possible Soon  US President Trump said a "very big" trade deal with India could be signed soon, opening the Indian market to US businesses. Negotiators are meeting in Washington to break recent deadlocks on key issues. "We're reaching some great agreements. One more is coming, maybe with India—very big—to open India," Trump said at a White House event Thursday.      Price Information    [USD/CNY Central Parity ] 7.1627, down 7 pips (prev: 7.1620; official close: 7.1684; overnight: 7.1671)    [Raw Materials (USD/ton) ]   - Ethylene Asia: CFR NE Asia 850, CFR SE Asia 860    - Propylene NE Asia: FOB Korea avg 750, CFR China avg 800    - North Asia LPG CIF: Propane 534-536, Butane 504-506    - South China LPG July arrival: Propane 583-593, Butane 540-550    - Taiwan LPG CIF: Propane 534-536, Butane 504-506    [ LLDPE US Dollar Market Price ] Film : USD 880-930 / ton ( CFR Whampoa ) ; Injection molding : $ 940 / ton ( CFR Dongguan ) ;   [ HDPE US Dollar Market Price ] Film : USD 910-930 / ton ( CFR Whampoa ) ; Hollow : USD 860-870 / ton ( CFR Whampoa ) ;   [ LDPE U.S. dollar market price ] Film : USD 1105-1120 / ton ( CFR Yantian ) ; Coating : USD 1350 / ton ( CFR Whampoa )   [ PP US dollar market price ] Homogenization : $ 935-975 / ton ( CFR Huangpu ) ; Copolymerization : USD 965-995 / ton ( CFR Whampoa ) ; Film material : $ 1000 / ton ( CFR Huangpu ) ; Transparency : USD 1085 / ton ( CFR Whampoa ) ; Pipe : USD 1160 / ton ( CFR Shanghai ).