Dimethylformamide (DMF) prices in China surged in early March as restocking by traders and processors collided with higher feedstock and logistics costs. The shift broke February’s flat pattern, aided by geopolitical tensions that tightened shipping routes and prompted buyers to secure cargoes ahead of the second-quarter demand. Restocking by pharmaceutical, polyurethane (PU) and agrochemical manufacturers lent support, while producers adopted more cautious offer strategies amid energy-market volatility and uncertain inbound supply. Market dynamics yielded mixed but mostly supportive demand: pharma and pharma intermediates remained a clear strength as firms build inventories, while PU resins and coatings and foams supported procurement for synthetic leather. Downstream leather-goods segments showed only moderate lift due to seasonal monsoon risks. Capacity expansion expectations are evident, but utilization remains near forty percent, implying a structural overhang versus short-term buying. Analysts project continued upside pressure in the near term, with March and April gains, a smaller May rise, and easing into June, then gains into late summer.
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.
