In a deal the financial details of which were not disclosed, Huntsman (Salt Lake City, Utah / USA; www.huntsman.com) in early July said it had acquired full ownership of its Russian joint venture Huntsman NMG (HNMG, Obninsk / Russia).

The US group had formed the jv with Russian polyurethanes supplier NMG (Obninsk) in 2007 – see Plasteurope.com of 12.03.2007. HNMG specialises in polyurethane systems for the adhesives, coatings and footwear industries in Russia, Ukraine and Belarus. Aside from manufacturing and distribution services at its headquarters, it also operates several branch offices, including in Ukraine and Belarus.

Huntsman said the purchase would allow it to exploit the predicted double-digit growth rates for polyurethane products in Russia, affording it greater access to the regional markets.