The US paraxylene market remained fundamentally firm throughout May 2026 despite a corrective movement during the final days of the month. While April established the foundation for the rally, May was characterized by strong downstream demand from PTA, polyester fiber, and PET resin producers, alongside elevated feedstock costs that sustained producer confidence. Paraxylene values continued benefiting from higher naphtha and crude benchmarks for most of the month, although increasing inventories at selected distribution hubs and improving logistics conditions moderated momentum toward the month-end. Market participants remained focused on securing material for packaging and polyester applications, preserving healthy procurement activity despite periodic price volatility. Domestic refiners continued supplying the majority of paraxylene requirements, maintaining a relatively tight supply environment. Looking ahead, paraxylene prices are expected to remain supported by stable downstream consumption and elevated feedstock economics, although inventory growth and improved logistical conditions may limit the pace of further gains during the coming weeks.
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.
