Market reports suggest that Mitsui Chemicals is preparing to bring its Toluene Diisocyanate (TDI) plant in Omuta, Japan, back online in the coming weeks. Industry sources indicate that the facility is likely to resume operations during the first half of September 2025, following a scheduled maintenance shutdown that began around July 27, 2025.
Although official confirmation has not been provided by the company, the development has drawn the attention of industry participants across Asia. The Omuta-based plant, with a production capacity of 50,000 metric tons per year, is considered a notable contributor to the regional supply of TDI, a key chemical used in the manufacture of flexible polyurethane foams. These foams are widely employed in furniture, bedding, automotive seating, and a variety of industrial applications.
The shutdown period had raised questions about short-term supply dynamics in the regional TDI market, particularly as demand in downstream industries has shown steady activity. A restart in early September is expected to restore production volumes, offering some relief to buyers who have been monitoring availability closely.
Market observers suggest that the plant’s return to operation will be an important factor in shaping near-term price sentiment. Given the strategic importance of TDI in global polyurethane value chains, the resumption of output at Omuta may help balance supply conditions and ease potential tightness in the Asian market.
Stakeholders are now awaiting further clarity from Mitsui Chemicals regarding the exact timing and operating rates of the restart. Until then, speculation remains on how quickly the facility will ramp up production and how this will influence overall market trends in the months ahead.
