According to the Japan Chemical Fibers Association, the nation’s production of man-made fibers in August 2018 decreased by 2.2% compared to the same month of last year to 76,645 tons, of which synthetic fibers declined by 4.5% to 59,392 tons.
While the production of major synthetic fiber items decreased, acrylic staple fiber production increased by 10.8% to 11,454 tons. ASF continued to be in a stagnant condition last year, but is finally showing signs of a recovery.
Polyester filament production decreased by 4.4% to 9,737 tons, along with that of nylon filament by 2.7% to 8,295 tons. Polyester staple fiber production dropped 16.6% to 6,947 tons, as producers shifted their production abroad.
Meanwhile, polypropylene staple fiber production continued to grow with a 2.9% growth in August to 5,252 tons.
The production of cellulosic fibers remained vigorous with a 6.6% increase to 17,253 tons.
MMF production during January-August 2018 decreased by 1.6% year-on-year to 603,547 tons, of which synthetic fibers declined by 2.7% to 476,369 tons.