Daily News Analysis

Mono Ethylene Glycol

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The textile industry in India has recently appealed to the government to not levy an anti-dumping duty on Mono Ethylene Glycol (MEG). MEG is one of the primary raw materials used in the production of polyester fibre and filament, which are essential for textile manufacturing. The textile sector has raised concerns that the imposition of such duties may lead to higher costs for manufacturers and hinder the growth of the industry.

About Mono Ethylene Glycol (MEG)

  • Chemical Formula: MEG is an organic compound with the chemical formula C₂H₆O₂. It is also known by other names, such as ethylene glycol or simply glycol.

  • Physical Properties:

    • MEG is a slightly viscous, clear, and colourless liquid.

    • It has a sweet taste and virtually no odor.

    • The compound is miscible with water, alcohols, and many other organic compounds.

  • Production: MEG is produced through the reaction of ethylene oxide with water.

  • Hygroscopic Nature: MEG has the ability to absorb water from its surroundings, making it a useful dehydrating agent in various applications.

  • Toxicity: It has relatively low toxicity, making it safe for many industrial uses.

Uses of Mono Ethylene Glycol

MEG plays a significant role in several industries, particularly in the textile and plastic sectors:

  1. Polyester Production:

    • The most significant use of MEG is in the production of polyester fibre and filament. It is one of the key raw materials used in making polyester, which is a major component in clothing fabrics.

  2. PET Resin:

    • MEG is also crucial in the production of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) resin, which is used for manufacturing plastic bottles and containers.

  3. Coolants and Antifreeze:

    • MEG is used as a coolant, heat transfer agent, and antifreeze in automotive systems and other industrial applications.

  4. Gas Pipelines:

    • It is used as a hydrate inhibitor in gas pipelines, preventing the formation of ice-like crystals in natural gas lines.

  5. Other Applications:

    • MEG is also used in various other industrial processes such as in the manufacture of solvents, paints, adhesives, and cosmetics.

Industry Concerns Over Anti-Dumping Duty

The textile industry has expressed concern that the government's proposed anti-dumping duty on MEG imports could lead to:

  • Higher raw material costs, affecting production costs for polyester-based products, which would ultimately raise prices for consumers and reduce the industry's competitiveness.

  • Impact on exports, as Indian textile products could become more expensive compared to those from countries not facing such duties.

Given that India imports a significant amount of MEG, the potential duty would impact the entire polyester supply chain, from fibre production to the manufacturing of plastic bottles.

Conclusion

MEG is an indispensable industrial chemical with a wide array of applications, particularly in the textile and plastic industries. While the Indian textile industry is concerned about the anti-dumping duty on MEG, the outcome of these discussions will likely influence the cost structure and competitiveness of polyester-based goods in the domestic and global markets.


 

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