According to the Japan Chemical Fibers Association, the nation’s man-made fiber production during January-June 2018 decreased by 1.9% year-on-year to 448,430 tons, of which synthetic fibers declined by 2.6% to 354,227 tons.
Production decreased for the three major synthetic fiber items of nylon, polyester and acrylics.
As a result of structural reforms, the production of polyester staple fiber fell 13.7% to 42,548 tons. The production of polyester filament also decreased by 4.9% to 58,835 tons, along with that of nylon filament by 5.8% to 46,175 tons and acrylic staple fiber by 3.0% to 60,595 tons. Meanwhile, the production of polypropylene staple fiber and filament increased, thanks to an expansion of applications.
June end stocks of man-made fibers decreased by 1.8% from the previous month to 86,565 tons, of which synthetic fibers declined by 2.6% to 65,047 tons.