Synthetic resins and their raw materials / A survey of the types and uses of synthetic resins, the organization of the industry, and the trade in resins and raw materials, with particular references to factors essential to tariff consideration. Under the general provisions of section 332, title III, part II, Tariff act of 1930.

by United States Tariff Commission

United States production.

Until 1938 the one domestic maker of vinyl acetate produced only experimental lots, the bulk of our requirements being imported from Canada. In that year large units to manufacture vinyl acetate were built at Niagara Falls, N. Y., and at Belle, W. Va. The remarkable properties of safety glass made from vinyl resin sheets, together with several other new and important applications of these resins, indicate a demand for vinyl acetate sufficient to warrant these large manufacturing units. The United States patents covering the processes of manufacture of vinyl acetate are owned by the Canadian producer, who has licensed the domestic makers.

Domestic production of vinyl chloride has increased from experimental quantities in 1927 to large-scale commercial output, increasing substantially each year since 1933.

United States imports.

There has been no import of vinyl chloride. Imports of vinyl acetate (unpolymerized), entirely from Canada, are shown in table [91].

Table 91.—Vinyl acetate, unpolymerized: United States imports for consumption, 1931-37

Year	Quantity (pounds)	Value	Unit value
1931	77,269	$11,489	$0.149
1932	104,129	14,053	.135
1933	159,757	21,134	.132
1934	217,182	39,462	.182
1935	776,426	149,876	0.193
19361	449,905	58,499	.130
19372	297,496	39,074	.131

¹ Duty reduced from 30 percent ad valorem and 6 cents per pound to 15 percent ad valorem and 3 cents per pound under Canadian trade agreement, effective Jan. 1, 1936.

² Preliminary.

Source: Foreign Commerce and Navigation of the United States.