Chemicals

Texas attorney-general probes Lululemon over potential ‘forever chemicals’ in its activewear

The chemicals, PFAS, are associated with harmful health effects in humans and animals, according to the US Environmental Protection Agency.

Stink of crime hangs over Vietnam chemical plant

Smoke and dust from the Duc Giang Lao Cai chemical plant in the Tang Loong industrial park.

South Korea enforces export ban of key plastics ingredient amid Middle East supply disruptions

The ban requires refiners to give the government powers to order production and allocation of naphtha, a key petrochemical feedstock used in chips, autos, plastics and everyday goods.

EU experts want broad restrictions on ‘forever chemicals’

Officially called PFAS, they are a group of more than 10,000 chemicals used in non-stick pans, stain-proof carpets, and other products.

Fears of plastic bag shortage in South Korea as Iran war disrupts naphtha supply

Manufacturers of government-regulated garbage bags said they have only about one month of raw material inventories remaining.

China cracks down on fentanyl networks in move long sought by Washington

For years Washington had pressed China for measures such as arresting the sellers of chemicals used to make the deadly drug behind thousands of US overdose deaths each year.

Explainer

Why shopping for food, clothes and toys in S’pore may get more expensive as oil prices rise

Oil plays a role in the manufacturing of common consumer items - particularly those that require plastics - such as toys, computers and kitchen ware.

S’pore to step up investments to extend lead in advanced manufacturing, such as in semiconductors

The moves aim to help manufacturers raise their productivity, improve quality and reliability, and become more flexible and resilient.

Trump administration re-approves twice-banned pesticide

A persistent concern about dicamba is “drift”. When the chemical volatilises in high heat it can spread for miles, poisoning other farms, home gardens as well as trees and plants.

Dozens hospitalised after nitric acid leak in Indonesia, raising safety concerns

The thick, orange-coloured fumes were first reported on Jan 31 at the facility owned by chemical tank storage company PT Vopak Terminal Merak.

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MDDI (P) 046/10/2025. Published by SPH Media Limited, Co. Regn. No.202120748H. Copyright © 2026 SPH Media Limited. All rights reserved.