NMC is one of only four major producers of liquid petroleum dyes.

Dyes and Pigments are used in various manufacturing processes, for coloring plastics, petroleum products, inks for printing and writing, coating (paints), wood stains, textiles, leather and paper products.

Based on U.S Trade Commission reports, the estimated demand for colorants is in excess of $2 billion per year, with Solvent Dyes (NMC's major products) about $70 million annually. The worldwide market is greater than $6 billion for colors and over $200 million for solvent dyes.

There are a limited number of suppliers of colors to the petroleum market.