March 2026 – Kuraray: Kuraray announced a 10% or higher price increase for its CLARINO™ man-made leather products, effective for shipments from April 2026. Kuraray cited higher logistics, labor, production-facility maintenance, renewal and raw-material costs. CLARINO™ is used in footwear, gloves, bags, automotive interiors and other applications.
April 2025 – Kuraray: Kuraray acquired Nelumbo Inc., a U.S. materials-technology company specializing in surface-modification technology. Kuraray had previously entered an exclusive partnership with Nelumbo in 2023 to investigate applications of the technology to fibers and polymer products. The technology is designed to provide functions such as water repellency without PFAS, supporting the development of functional polymer and textile materials.
December 2025 – Asahi Kasei: Asahi Kasei and Teijin agreed to integrate their respective trading businesses, with Teijin Frontier becoming an 80%/20% joint venture between Teijin and Asahi Kasei, effective October 1, 2026. Teijin Frontier combines global procurement with manufacturing and development of high-performance fibers and industrial materials, creating a broader platform for advanced material applications.
2025–2026 – Toray Industries: Toray continues commercial development of its Ultrasuede® and Ecsaine® high-performance artificial-leather materials. Ecsaine® is produced from ultra-microfiber nonwoven polyester impregnated with polyurethane resin, while Ultrasuede® uses ultra-fine fibers to provide a suede-like appearance and feel. Applications include automotive interiors, footwear, furniture and fashion.