Bangladesh‘s formic acid imports in 2026 are projected to reach approximately 10,000-10,500 tons, recovering from 2025 levels. The first quarter demonstrated robust activity with multiple substantial shipments through Chittagong port, driven by strong demand from the textile and leather sectors. However, the second quarter has seen moderate moderation due to seasonal factors and the monsoon slowdown. China remains the dominant supplier, accounting for over 60% of imports with a 63.1% CAGR from 2019-2022. Key drivers for the remainder of 2026 include textile industry expansion (6.5% annual growth), resilient leather sector demand, and rising livestock feed acidification adoption. Price pressures from increased logistical costs are expected to continue, with Q1 2026 showing 4-7% quarter-over-quarter increases. Risks include currency fluctuations, supply chain disruptions, and potential tariff changes. As a trusted chemical supplier, HISEACHEM offers reliable formic acid supply with compe

As the chemical industry pursues sustainability, bio-based ethyl lactate is challenging traditional petroleum-based butyl acetate. While butyl acetate remains dominant in coatings due to its cost-efficiency and balanced evaporation rate, ethyl lactate offers superior eco-friendly credentials, being non-toxic and biodegradable. Although currently hindered by higher costs and slower drying speeds, ethyl lactate excels in safety-sensitive sectors like food and pharmaceuticals. Ultimately, rather than a total replacement, a hybrid approach utilizing both solvents represents the most pragmatic path toward greener industrial manufacturing.

From June to early July 2026, China‘s sodium hydroxide (caustic soda) market experienced a clear two‑phase trajectory: a solid upward trend in June followed by a modest pullback in July. June prices rose from 620 RMB/ton to 669 RMB/ton, a 7.9% increase, driven by extensive industry maintenance—with planned capacity exceeding 5 million tons—and strong alumina sector demand. However, year‑on‑year prices remained 20% lower. July opened with a 0.91% decline to 652 RMB/ton, as surging liquid chlorine prices restored chlor‑alkali profitability, prompting early production resumptions and weakening the supply contraction. Meanwhile, non‑alumina downstream demand remains persistently sluggish. Looking ahead, the market faces structural overcapacity—2.19 million tons of new capacity are scheduled for 2026, with total annual output expected to exceed 43 million tons—suggesting limited upside and potential renewed downward pressure in the second half. As a trusted chemical supplier, HISEACHEM prov