Kuraray Set to Launch 100 Percent Bio Based EVOH and Raise Global Prices Starting June

Kuraray is preparing to roll out its 100% biomass-based ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOH) under the name “Circular Eval” before the end of 2025. Produced at its Antwerp-based EVAL Europe facility, the product marks a major step in the company’s transition toward renewable materials.

The supply framework has already been established as of 2024, and Kuraray is currently working to negotiate cost adjustments with clients, given that this new sustainable product will carry a higher price point than its conventional counterparts. One of EVAL Europe’s technical service inspectors noted that negotiations are progressing well, expressing confidence that the product will enter the market this year and begin commercial sales.

Meanwhile, on May 23, the company announced a global price adjustment for its existing EVAL™ EVOH resin and film products, set to take effect on June 1, 2025. Kuraray stated that persistent increases in manufacturing and operational costs have exceeded what internal measures can offset, prompting this price hike.

With Circular Eval poised to debut and standard EVAL products becoming more expensive, 2025 is shaping up to be a year of significant transformation for EVOH supply chains and pricing dynamics worldwide. Businesses relying on EVOH for packaging will need to prepare for cost and material shifts in the coming quarters.