In August 2025, the price of Ethyl Vinyl Alcohol Copolymer (EVOH) in China fell by 0.6%, despite production costs in Japan increasing due to increased upstream Vinyl Acetate Monomer (VAM) prices and a plant closure, as demand has been weak from downstream customers making packaging and using inventory in the automotive sector. Recent production closures, high inventories of PET, and seasonal slowdowns compounded weak demand. There was a decline of 5.0% in Japanese EVOH exports to China causing prices to be pressured, which was caused due to logistical issues as a landslide in Yunnan disrupted the grocery chain. Between U.S.-China tariffs (20-30% on certain imports) and declining intra-Asian freight rates, downstream customers are intimidated by the increased competition as the easier access for cheaper imports floods the market and sustains the bearish outlook.
Selenis has effectively manufactured recycled PET chips using terephthalic acid sourced from Circ®, a textile-to-textile recycler based in Virginia. The chip production took place through a series of batches at Selenis' pilot plant in San-Giorgio, Italy. By utilizing inputs recovered from polycotton textile waste, Selenis has created high-quality PET chip, which has been further processed into DTY yarn. This yarn will play a crucial role in product development as Circ prepares for additional capsule launches. Selenis is leveraging the success of this initial collaboration phase and is committed to advancing towards an offtake partnership to support Circ's inaugural industrial facility.
Eduardo Santos, Head of Corporate Strategy at Selenis, remarked that the monomer synthesis showed a performance comparable to virgin terephthalic acid. He expressed optimism about the consistent quality of Circ's monomer output and anticipated future commercial success. Santos pointed out that the Circ partnership complements Selenis's existing mission and goals for a more sustainable textile industry. He further stated their anticipation of expanding upon this collaboration and providing support for Circ's forthcoming commercial production trials.
