Malic acid prices in the United States strengthened markedly through March, with the market shifting from stable early-month conditions to a firmer late-month trend driven by resilient downstream demand and rising landed costs. Early trading was supported by carryover positions, while stronger procurement from beverage formulators and nutraceutical producers during mid-March improved market sentiment and accelerated buying activity. Higher upstream costs for Maleic anhydride and fumaric acid added pressure on exporter margins, while increased freight rates and firmer export quotations raised import costs for US buyers. Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, particularly transit disruptions near the Strait of Hormuz, kept crude oil and Natural gas prices elevated, increasing production, logistics, and insurance expenses. Supply remained available as Gulf Coast feedstock production continued normally, but logistics-driven cost escalation tightened effective spot availability. According to ChemAnalyst, the near-term outlook remains firm as import-led buying, elevated freight costs, and cautious seller positioning continue to support upward market momentum.
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.
