News
Kuraray has announced its decision to revise the prices of hydrogenated styrenic thermoplastic elastomers SEPTON and HYBRAR (Kuraray Trademarks), as well as the block elastomer "TU polymer" (the technology for which combines styrene elastomer block with polyurethane elastomer). The details of these price revisions are given below.
Crude oil and naphtha 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 materials-remain high. Added to this, the amount of butadiene and other products being supplied is steadily being restricted. Utility and distribution costs are also increasing due to steep rises in heavy fuel oil prices.
Because of the rising prices of these key 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 revenues for these products have rapidly declined.
Based on these factors, and in order to maintain a steady supply and improve profitability, Kuraray has decided to implement price revisions, as detailed below.
1. Scope of revision
Hydrogenated styrenic thermoplastic elastomers SEPTON , HYBRAR, block elastomer "TU polymer"
2. Price increases and effective dates
| Area | Price increase (Japanese products) | Price increase (U.S. products) | Effective date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Japan | JPY 52/kg | JPY 52/kg | Shipments from August 1, 2008 |
| North America, South America | US$ 0.36/pound | US$ 0.20/pound | Shipments from July 1, 2008 |
| Europe | EUR 0.30/kg | EUR 0.30/kg | Shipments from July 1, 2008 |
| Asia (excluding Japan) | US$ 0.80/kg | US$ 0.50/kg | Shipments from July 15, 2008 |
