Dow expands Zhangjiagang silicone business with $300 million investment

Zhangjiagang, China – Dow, one of the largest chemical producers in the world, will invest US$300 million in its silicone manufacturing site in the Zhangjiagang Free Trade Zone in Jiangsu Province.

Dow started its operation in Zhangjiagang in 2002. The investment will see Dow further develop its silicone intermediates and downstream portfolio, ranging from silicone fluids to adhesives and sealants in the next five years, according to the memorandum of understanding signed between the two parties on 23 March 2020.

Due to megatrends such as globalisation, urbanisation, and a growing focus on sustainable development, customers across industries are seeking more innovative, sustainable, and differentiated silicone products—especially customers in China and the Asia Pacific region,” said Mauro Gregorio, president of Dow Performance Materials & Coatings.

“With the agreement signed, we are well positioned to focus on some key industries, such as mobility and transportation, building and infrastructure, electronics, and home and personal care,” he added.

Meanwhile, Dow said it intended to share manufacturing best practices with local authorities to improve overall safety and environmental performance in the free trade zone.

“The MoU we are signing today is a testament to our long-standing commitment to growing alongside the city of Zhangjiagang and our partners in China,” said Yoke Loon Lim, president of Dow Greater China.

Dow manufactures plastics, industrial intermediates, coatings and silicones. With 109 manufacturing sites in more than 30 countries, it employs about 36,500 people worldwide. Dow sales in 2019 totaled US$43 billion.