Global Supply Chain Under Pressure! Wacker Increases Prices for Polymers and Silicones

Wacker Chemie in Munich announced that starting April 1, 2026, it will increase the prices of its polymer dispersions, redispersible polymer powders, and silicone products in North America.

The maximum price increase is 10%, aimed at addressing what the company calls "severe disruptions in the global supply chain and continuously rising costs of raw materials and logistics."

Wacker stated: "In response to the pressure caused by rising raw material and freight costs in the region, Wacker must adjust the prices of all domestically produced dispersions and polymer powders. Starting April 1, 2026, or to the extent permitted by contracts, Wacker will increase the prices of polymer dispersions and water-dispersible polymer powders, with a maximum increase of 10%."

The company also announced that its silicone products will be priced up on the same date.

Global supply chain disruptions drive price adjustments.

Wacker emphasized the impact of the geopolitical situation on energy and raw material markets. The company stated: "The current changes in the situation in the Middle East have led to severe distortions in the global energy and raw material markets. Affected by this, coupled with significant disruptions to international trade routes, the prices of oil, natural gas, raw materials, and logistics have all increased significantly. Wacker's global silicone business has also been affected by this situation."

The company emphasized its commitment to minimizing the impact of price adjustments on customers. Earlier this month, PlasticsToday reported on Wacker’s 2025 Annual Report, in which the company noted that the chemical industry is facing immense pressure, downstream demand across various sectors remains weak, and geopolitical crises and trade conflicts have further intensified market uncertainty.

Dr. Christian Hartel, CEO of Wacker, said at the company's recent annual press conference in Munich, Germany: "Demand remains weak across many of our downstream customer sectors, with trade conflicts and geopolitical crises causing market uncertainty, leading to low customer order intentions and many companies postponing investment spending."

Focusing on Sustainable Solutions

WACKER’s Polymers Division specializes in binders and polymer additives, with products applied in construction chemicals, coatings, adhesives, and fiber-reinforced composites. Its portfolio includes redispersible polymer powders, dispersions, and solid resins, all aimed at supporting the development of the sustainable construction market.

Wacker offers a globally leading portfolio of silicone products, providing over 2,800 specialized products, including silicone fluids, emulsions, elastomers, and sealants, serving industries such as construction and renewable materials.

In addressing global challenges, WACKER is consistently committed to alleviating the pressure from rising production and logistics costs while delivering high-quality, sustainable solutions to its customers.