French specialty chemicals producer Arkema has announced plans to sell its global MBS copolymer business and its European and Asian acrylic copolymer (AIMPA) operations to India's Praana Group. The divestment, which generated €44 million in revenue in 2024, includes the Vlissingen plant in the Netherlands and is expected to close in Q1 2026. This move signals a continued portfolio shift toward higher-value specialty materials, directly affecting global supply chains for PVC profiles, pipes, packaging, and engineering plastics.
Scope of the divestment
The transaction covers Arkema's impact modifiers and processing aids used in PVC and engineering plastics. Specifically, it includes the worldwide Methyl Methacrylate Butadiene Styrene (MBS) copolymer business and the European and Asian acrylic copolymer (AIMPA) activities. These operations fall under Arkema's Coating Solutions segment. Arkema will retain its Mobile, Alabama, plant and all AIMPA activities in the Americas.
Buyer profile: Praana Group
Praana Group is an Indian conglomerate comprising Sterling Specialty Chemicals, Galata Chemicals, Artek Surfin Chemicals, and 3B Fibreglass. The group is a leading producer of specialty chemicals and composite materials, supplying advanced solutions to construction, textiles, automotive, home care, personal care, and various industrial markets. This acquisition will significantly expand Praana's presence in the global PVC additives market.
Supply-chain impact
The divestment will transfer the Vlissingen, Netherlands, production site—employing 50 people—to Praana. This site is a key manufacturing hub for MBS and AIMPA additives serving European and Asian customers. Buyers of PVC impact modifiers and processing aids should monitor potential shifts in supply continuity, lead times, and pricing as the ownership transition proceeds. Arkema's retained U.S. AIMPA operations remain unaffected.
What buyers should watch
Importers and distributors of PVC additives for construction profiles, pipes, and packaging should prepare for possible changes in product branding, technical support, and commercial terms after the Q1 2026 closing. The deal is subject to Dutch works council consultation. Overseas buyers may also see new sourcing options from Praana's broader portfolio, which includes complementary chemicals and composite materials.
China sourcing context
While this transaction does not directly involve Chinese assets, the restructuring of global PVC additive supply—particularly the shift of European production to an Indian owner—could influence competitive dynamics in Asia. Chinese producers of MBS and acrylic impact modifiers may face altered market positioning as Praana integrates Arkema's technology and customer base.
Source: Read the original report | Published: December 23, 2025