BASF has increased the price of its Styrolux polymers in Europe by EUR 150 (£135) per tonne.

Styrolux is a range of thermoplastic copolymers that are used in transparent food packaging and blister packs, as well as injection-moulded products for cosmetics and other household products.

In a statement, BASF said the decision was due to the rise in raw material, energy and transport costs.

The announcement comes after the firm announced it was selling its US special effects films business to RMS Packaging for an undisclosed sum.

Special effect films are used in packaging, labels and other goods to proved eye-catching effects and are available in a range of polymers and with various thermal, mechanical and chemical properties.

BASF said that the long-term interests on the business were better served by selling it to RMS. It will retain ownership of the building in Peekskill, New York and lease it to RMS. 12 employees will transfer to the new owner.

Last month, BASF said it was targeting its Cypoprint metal-based inks at the production of targets for RFID.