The global production of chemical fibers is more than 2.6 times higher than the production of natural fibers. And although Russia is just beginning to increase its capacity, large partners are coming to the industry that are able to provide raw materials for the needs of the entire industry.
In Russia today, the demand for polyester fibers and yarns is 319 thousand tons, and only 139 thousand tons are produced. Alexander Petrov, President of the National Institute for the Development of the Hydrocarbon Market, creator of large–capacity domestic complexes for the manufacture of polyester products, believes that polyester fibers are the most relevant products for textile production today, but manufacturers face a number of problems.
"Our country has all the opportunities to develop its own production of polyesters (semi-finished products for textile products). But the industry's competitors in the face of manufacturers of plastic bottle containers are pulling over production facilities. As a result, we buy polyester raw materials in China. This limits the development of the textile industry in Russia," says Petrov.
In addition, Alexander Petrov believes thst the production of domestic flame retardants is currently unprofitable. But increasing the fire safety requirements for fabrics to the level of European ones will increase the need for flame retardants and make its production cost-effective.