Textiles Chemicals In Growth Mode

Compiled ByTonya Vinas World demand for textile-related chemicals will increase 4.2% annually to $18.3 billion in 2006, according to industrial market research firm The Freedonia Group Inc., Cleveland. A sluggish market for the last five years, textiles chemicals will be bolstered by growing demand in Mexico, China, India, Indonesia, Mexico and Thailand as well as smaller countries in Asia and Latin America, according to Freedonia. Growth in developed countries, particularly Western Europe, will be "subpar," the company says. Textiles manufacturers in developing companies will in particular need more higher-end dyes and chemicals as they strive to meet the standards of export markets. In addition, chemicals related to improving production efficiency, such as hydrogen peroxide bleaches and low-formaldehyde finishes, are expected to post healthy gains. Freedonia released this information in its World Textile Chemicals report, which is available for $4,700.