News

Kuraray announces its decision to increase the prices of both methyl methacrylate (MMA) monomer and methyl acetoacetate (MAA) by ¥20 per kilogram in Japan for shipments commencing November 16, 2009.

There has been flourishing demand for MMA monomer and optical applications for PMMA in particular. Consequently, there is a tight balance between supply and demand.

As with MMA monomers, supplies of MAA, which is used to make esters, coatings and adhesives, remain tight amid strong demand in Japan and the rest of Asia.

Kuraray revised the prices of MMA monomer and MAA for shipments from July 15, 2008. However, the recent rises in the prices of such mainstay materials as acetone and methanol as well as auxiliary material costs caused by skyrocketing crude oil and naphtha prices have brought about a rapid deterioration in the Company's earnings from MMA monomer and MAA.

In light of these circumstances, Kuraray decided to implement price revisions to maintain a stable supply and to improve profitability in this business. Details of the price revisions are as follows.

1. Scope of revisions Domestic shipments of MMA monomer and MAA
2. Price increase ¥20 per kilogram (MMA monomer and MAA)
3. Effective date Shipments from November 16, 2009 (both MMA monomer and MAA)