Huntsman will end nitrile latex production in Akron by 2027, citing Chinese imports, while maintaining specialty polymer operations locally.
Huntsman Corporation has announced plans to discontinue nitrile latex production at its Akron, Ohio facility by 31 March 2027, a move that is expected to significantly reduce its local workforce. The company stated that approximately 25% to 30% of the site’s 70 to 75 employees will be affected as part of the restructuring process. According to Huntsman, the decision was largely driven by increasing pressure from low-cost imports originating from China, which have intensified competition within the global nitrile latex market and reduced the profitability of domestic production operations.
The Akron facility manufactures nitrile latex products that are widely used across several industrial applications, including gaskets, textile coatings, and masking tape production. These materials play an important role in specialty manufacturing and industrial processing due to their durability, chemical resistance, and adhesive properties. However, Huntsman indicated that continuing operations under current market conditions has become increasingly difficult as imported products continue to enter the market at significantly lower prices.
Despite the shutdown of nitrile latex production, the company confirmed that it will maintain operations at its reactive liquid polymers plant in Akron. This division manufactures specialty polymer materials used in advanced industrial applications and remains an important component of Huntsman’s broader performance products portfolio. By retaining this segment, the company aims to preserve part of its operational presence in the region while continuing to focus on higher-value and specialty materials businesses that are less vulnerable to low-cost international competition.
Industry stakeholders and local polymer sector representatives acknowledged the disappointing nature of the announcement but emphasized that the closure does not indicate a broader decline in Akron’s longstanding polymer and chemical manufacturing ecosystem. Hans Dorfi of the Polymer Industry Cluster noted that the decision highlights the growing challenges faced by U.S.-based producers competing within an increasingly commoditized and globally competitive market. He added that the closure reflects broader industry pressures rather than a weakening of the Akron polymer sector itself.
Dorfi further stated that collaborative initiatives between Huntsman and regional industry organizations on the development of next-generation materials and advanced polymer technologies are expected to continue even after nitrile latex production ceases. Akron has historically maintained a strong reputation as a center for polymer science, rubber manufacturing, and materials innovation, supported by close cooperation between manufacturers, research institutions, and industry groups.
The planned closure also reflects a wider trend affecting chemical and materials manufacturers across North America and Europe, where producers are increasingly reassessing operations exposed to lower-cost imports and volatile commodity market conditions. Many companies are shifting their focus toward specialty chemicals, advanced materials, and higher-margin products in order to remain competitive in an evolving global landscape.
While the workforce reduction will undoubtedly affect employees and the local community, Huntsman’s continued investment in its reactive liquid polymers business suggests the company still sees strategic value in maintaining a presence in Akron. Over the coming months, additional details regarding employee transition support and operational restructuring are expected as the company moves toward the planned 2027 production shutdown.
