Kuraray has announced its decision to increase the prices of hydrogenated styrenic thermoplastic elastomers SEPTON and HYBRAR as well as of the block elastomer "TU polymer" (the technology for which combines styrene elastomer block with polyurethane elastomer), commencing with shipments from May 1, 2008. The details of global price revisions are given below.
Crude oil and naptha prices continue to rise sharply, and prices for raw materials that are primary components of Kuraray products-isoprene monomer, styrene monomer, butadiene monomer and urethane material-are hovering at high levels. Utility costs are also rising thanks to the steep rises in crude oil prices.
Because of the rising prices for these chief materials, Kuraray has implemented several price revisions for elastomer-related products in recent years. However, against the backdrop of active demand from the Asian market, raw material prices continue on an upward trend, and operating margins for these products have been rapidly deteriorating.
Given these factors, and in order to maintain a steady supply and improve profitability, Kuraray has decided to implement price revisions, as detailed below.
Products | Type | In Japan | Overseas | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Hydrogenated styrenic thermoplastic elastomers SEPTON, HYBRAR | Crumb Grades | JPY 50/kg | US$ 0.20/pound | North America |
US$ 440/MT | South America, Asia Pacific | |||
EUR 300/MT | Europe, Middle East | |||
Pellet Grades | JPY 70/kg | US$ 0.30/pound | North America | |
US$ 660/MT | South America, Asia Pacific | |||
EUR 450/MT | Europe, Middle East | |||
Block elastomer "TU polymer" | 50% increase | An Increase by 50% over current price in all regions |
Shipments from May 1, 2008