Vinyl acetate monomer prices in the USA moved firmly higher through March, driven by tight spot availability, disciplined seller offers, and firmer feedstock sentiment. Early March demand remained steady; mid-month seller discipline preserved the uptrend; late March gains followed as freight and feedstock concerns linked to Middle East tensions tightened discussions. Demand for vinyl acetate monomer from adhesives, coatings, packaging, and general industrial applications kept spot supply tight and supported higher bids, with adhesives and coatings among the most active end-use sectors. The market’s benchmark rose relative to prior levels as buyers faced limited import alternatives and sellers stayed firm. Import reliance remained limited, reinforcing domestic price momentum. Upstream dynamics were a key driver: rising crude and naphtha boosted feedstock-cost expectations, while domestic acetic acid and ethylene flows and energy inputs stayed broadly stable, leaving markets exposed to geopolitical cost shocks. Near-term outlook: stable to slightly higher, with ongoing risk from geopolitical developments and feedstock/freight volatility.
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.
