Asia‑Pacific continues to be the hub of the global polyurethanes industry, supported by its extensive manufacturing base, integrated chemical supply chain and expanding downstream sectors.

The fossil-based production of polyurethane foam and other products uses raw materials obtained from petroleum and natural gas, notably polyols and isocyanates.

As global polyurethane production shifts towards emerging economies, India and the Middle East have emerged as two of the fastest-growing markets, although their growth is underpinned by some different market dynamics. Both regions are benefiting from the growing domestic demand; although India's growth is largely consumption led, the Middle East combines expanding regional demand with integrated petrochemical production and downstream manufacturing investments.

The global flavours and fragrances (F&F) industry is entering a new phase of consolidation, with leading manufacturers increasingly leveraging acquisitions to strengthen product portfolios, expand technological capabilities and secure access to high‑growth markets. While the sector remains fragmented, a small group of multinational companies including Givaudan, dsm‑firmenich, International Flavors & Fragrances (IFF), Symrise and MANE collectively generate more than half of gl

Publication: June 2026 IAL Consultants has updated its in-depth market report on Polyurethane Chemicals and Products in APAC. The data are also available in database format for subscribers, enabling the manipulation and output of data. Geographical coverage • Australia • Bangladesh • Pakistan • Philippines • China • Singapore • India • Indonesia • South Korea • Sri Lanka • Japan • Taiwan • Malaysia • Thailand • New Zealand • Vietnam • Rest of Asia Raw Material Coverage • Acry

Cashew Nutshell Liquid (CNSL) is one of the most promising non-food renewable feedstocks for producing bio-based polyols used in polyurethane foams, coatings, adhesives, sealants, and elastomers.

The polyurethane (PU) value chain is undergoing a significant disruption, where price, availability, and lead time are shifting simultaneously, reshaping the operating environment.

Polyester polyols account for just under one third of global polyol consumption. The segment’s mix remains stable, with aliphatic polyester polyols holding about 70% share and aromatic polyester polyols the remaining 30%, supported by steady demand from rigid foam and construction applications. Overall, shifts in consumption are incremental, driven by evolving performance needs rather than any structural market change.

Low-VOC polyurethane coatings are gaining momentum across Asia-Pacific region, propelled by tightening environmental regulations and evolving market structures.

Publication: April 2026 IAL Consultants has updated its in-depth market report on Polyurethane Chemicals and Products in Europe, Middle East and Africa. The data will also be available separately in a database format for subscribers, enabling the manipulation and output of data. Geographical coverage Western Europe (13 countries/regions) Austria, Belgium (new), France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands (new), Nordic Region, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, United K

Polyurethane Dispersions (PUDs): A Sustainable Shift in Wood and Furniture Coatings

On 30 March 2026, the European Commission released comprehensive guidance to support the uniform implementation of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) across the European Union, aiming to create a more sustainable, competitive and harmonised packaging sector.

The Asia-Pacific polyurethane market is witnessing increased volatility in raw material prices, primarily driven by supply-side constraints, escalating production costs, and geopolitical uncertainties. In recent months, this pressure has intensified, with manufacturers across the region implementing price hikes. A major factor behind this volatility is China’s rapid capacity expansion. In recent years, China has strengthened its competitive position through significant invest

This study delivers an in-depth assessment of the global polyurethane (PU) industry’s shift toward sustainability. It examines the current landscape of conventional PU products and outlines the emerging technologies, materials and strategies.

The transition from CFCs to low global warming potential (low-GWP) blowing agents is transforming the global foam and insulation industry. Blowing agents are chemicals used to create the cellular structure in foam materials such as polyurethane and polystyrene, which are widely used in construction insulation, refrigeration appliances, automotive components and packaging. Traditionally used blowing agents have raised environmental concerns due to their contribution to greenho

The global push towards sustainability has significantly influenced the production of polyurethane systems in recent years.

The total additives market for blowing agents and flame retardants was estimated at around ~1.6 million tonnes in 2025

Growing consumer awareness of the gut microbiome’s role in overall health has propelled prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics into the spotlight. The rising preference for soluble dietary fibre, valued for its wide-ranging health benefits and versatility in food applications, is driving global demand. Plant-based diets and the pursuit of clean-label products are further reinforcing the appeal of fibre-rich food and beverages. With increasing consumer demand for tailored well

The report presents data on the 2025 consumption of aliphatic and aromatic polyester polyols, as well as polyether and eco-friendly polyols, together with forecast consumption to 2030 (eco-friendly polyols forecast to 2035). Consumption data and forecasts are segmented by the three major geographic regions: the Americas, EMEA and Asia-Pacific

Flame retardant consumption across the Americas PU industry is demonstrating sustained long-term growth, increasing from 155,400 tonnes in 2019 to a projected 186,400 tonnes by 2030, representing an overall increase of approximately 20% over the period.