Kuraray isoprene business reports lower sales

Tokyo – Kuraray’s isoprene business, which includes styrenic-based thermoplastic rubbers Septon, has reported slight declines in sales and operating income in the first half of 2019.

The unit posted 1.4% year-on-year decline in operating income at Yen3.4 billion (€29 million), on 1.5% lower sales of Yen27.4 billion, Kuraray reported 8 Aug.

In the six months to end of June, demand for Septon decreased mainly in China, while isoprene chemicals remained firm, Kuraray added.

Kuraray’s isoprene unit also includes Genestar-branded polyamide engineering plastic, which also saw sluggish demand during the first half.