The Global Viscose Fibre Industry in the 21 Century the First 10 Years

The viscose fibre industry is the oldest man-made fibre business in the world with its roots stretching back to the late 19 century, although commercial production did not begin until 1905 when Courtaulds opened its first filament plant. Initially the industry enjoyed a period of substantial growth which was followed by an equally dramatic decline in the face of competition from the newer synthetic fibres. However, in more recent times the industry has shown signs of recovery, driven primarily by the commissioning of new plants in Asia. At the same time some factories in the western world and elsewhere have struggled to compete, with many closing down and others running at reduced capacity utilisation. This paper highlights developments in the latest chapter of the global viscose fibre industry by examining the regional changes that have taken place during the first ten years of the 21 century. It shows that far from being in decline, the viscose fibre business is in a healthy state with annual average growth rates exceeding many other fibres including polyester staple. Finally, and in conclusion, the prospects for the second ten years of the 21 century are reviewed.