Belarus: A delegation from the Belarusian Universal Commodity Exchange (BUCE) has entered into negotiations with Chinese synthetic fibres producers for the import of their materials. UZDA News has reported that the products will serve as raw materials for the Belarusian light building materials industry.

BUCE said "Chinese companies have become increasingly active, making regular transactions. This year, China supplied Belarus with spare parts, industrial tools, and technological equipment – mainly import-substituting products.”

Chinese imports were valued at US$84m in the opening seven months of 2024, more than double the figure for the corresponding period in 2023.

Japan: Glass fibre products and textiles producer Nitto Boseki raised its sales by 29% year-on-year, to US$184m, in the first quarter of the 2025 financial year. The company’s net profit more than tripled to US$23.2m. Its insulation segment raised its sales by 12% year-on-year to US$26m, recuperating a profit of US$1.4m, compared to a break-even in the first quarter of the 2024 financial year.

Nitto Boseki now anticipates a 17% rise in full-year sales, to US$766m, and a 48% rise in earnings before interest, taxation, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA), to US$162m, in 2024.

North America: Kingspan Insulated Panels North America has released its second annual sustainability report, detailing progress in the third year of the company’s Planet Passionate sustainability initiative. In 2023, Kingspan advanced its use of renewable energy, converting its DeLand, Florida, insulation plant to 100% on-site solar power. The producer reduced its total Scope 1 and 2 CO₂ emissions by 5% year-on-year and its water consumption by 2.17ML compared to 2022. It partnered with Belter Tech to divert 454,000kg of polyisocyanurate (PIR) foam from landfill.

Director of Sustainability Brent Trenga said "Planet Passionate is transforming the business on all levels, recognised by our leadership, employees and the building professionals we collaborate with. We are proud of our 2023 achievements and continue to strive for new milestones in 2024."

Paraguay: Ireland-based Kingspan has announced the successful launch of a new joint venture (JV) with metal building products company MV Aceros. MarketLine News has reported that the JV will produce insulated metal panels, among other products, for the local Paraguayan market. Kingspan noted MV Aceros’ ‘significant experience in and knowledge of’ the market. The Competition Commission of Paraguay gave the deal unconditional clearance.