In 2025, global flame retardant (FR) consumption in polyurethane foams was largely shaped by evolving regulatory pressures and shifting chemical safety standards. Asia-Pacific (APAC) remained the largest regional market at nearly 40%, supported by its extensive polyurethane production base and continued use of cost‑effective halogenated FRs such as TCPP.

Siegwerk, one of the leading global providers of printing inks and coatings for packaging applications and labels, introduces a new acrylic-free ink for water-based flexo printing on paper and board: UniLEAF. With an innovative formulation approach, it delivers substantial gains in renewable content, significant reductions in carbon footprint, improved energy efficiency, and strong alignment with market and regulatory requirements.

As automotive interiors trends evolve toward seamlessly integrated controls and adaptive design elements, manufacturers are seeking ways to embed smart functionality into surfaces without changing the look and feel of established materials.

Syensqo and Shell Chemicals Europe B.V. have joined forces to supply mass-balanced, low-carbon EO solutions for the agricultural and industrial markets, enabling reduced product carbon footprint (PCF) without compromising performance.

DIC Corporation has decided to revise its sales prices for epoxy resins and epoxy resin curing agents, which are used in insulating materials for electronics and in coatings, among others. Revised prices will apply to products delivered on or after April 15, 2026.

Paper-based packaging has become much more than just a matter of image, particularly in the food and e-commerce sectors. Brand owners and packaging manufacturers are switching to sustainable and, above all, recyclable solutions, driven by regulatory requirements such as the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).

Teijin Frontier Co., Ltd. announced today that it has developed a new stretch polyester yarn that offers new opportunities to create comfortable, all polyester fabrics for sports and outdoor wear.

Symrise has launched Cellexora™ MD, a pioneering plant-derived cosmetic ingredient designed to support long-term skin health, regeneration and vitality in premium skincare formulations.

International Flavors & Fragrances (IFF) has achieved a significant regulatory milestone in the Asia-Pacific region after the Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) approved the first heart health claim for isolated soy protein in both Australia and New Zealand.

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 Polyisocyanurate Insulation Manufacturers Association, the trade association representing North American manufacturers of polyiso insulation, announced the publication of updated Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for polyiso insulation products.

Pflaumer Brothers announces the introduction of TERACURE® MCR-2, an aromatic polyisocyanate pre-polymer based on diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI), engineered for use in moisture-cured and two-component polyurethane systems requiring exceptional corrosion resistance and long-term durability.

American Pacific Group Announces Investment in Dossier

BASF and Sevnce Robotics sign an MoU to enhance the smart transformation of the chemical industry

Cabot Sanmar to invest $25 million in the expansion of its Mettur manufacturing plant.

As a 100% plant-based multifunctional, Mindera® Euca (INCI: Piperitone*) reliably upgrades rinse-off formulations. It boosts foam quality and volume and helps create a dense, rich foam, including in sulphate-free systems. Formulators can also build appealing textures by enhancing viscosity and improving the sensorial experience. In parallel, Mindera® Euca supports robust product protection across a broad pH range, so brands can deliver confident everyday performance.

BASF Corporation is launching Butyl acrylate RE and 2-Ethylhexylacrylate RE (Renewable Electricity), two new products that are manufactured at BASF’s Freeport, Texas site with attributed electricity from renewable sources. This reduces carbon dioxide emissions in the manufacturing process and improves the products’ carbon footprint compared to conventionally produced acrylic acid esters.

Rakem Group, guided by its philosophy of people, planet, profit, and partnership, has renewed its decade-long distribution partnership with Turkey-based Organik Kimya.

Global blowing agent (BA) consumption in polyurethane foams reached ~900,000 tonnes in 2025, with demand shaped primarily by insulation needs, regulatory pressures and the rapid transition to low‑GWP technologies.

Azelis, a leading innovation service provider in the speciality chemicals and food ingredients industry, has announced a new exclusive distribution agreement with Ashland in Thailand

China-Singapore Design Collaboration Boosts "Xiangliao" Brand's Global Expansion by Creating International Packaging for Chongqing Noodle Sauce

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

L'Oréal completes the acquisition of Kering Beauté as part of its strategic cooperation with Kering

Siegwerk, a global leader in printing inks and coatings for packaging applications, today announced the signing of a definite agreement for the acquisition of Hi-Tech Inks, a prominent Indian producer of flexographic and gravure printing inks.