Kuraray to Invest in a New EVOH Production Plant in Singapore
11 April 2024 – Kuraray has decided to invest in a production plant for EVAL™ EVOH resin at its subsidiary in Singapore, Kuraray Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd. (100% owned by Kuraray Co., Ltd.).
Functional resin with highest level of gas barrier properties
EVAL™ EVOH resin developed and commercialized by Kuraray in 1972, is a functional resin with the highest level of gas barrier properties. It is widely used in food packaging applications because it blocks gasses such as oxygen, prevents food deterioration and contributes to the reduction of food loss.
In recent years, the market has shifted to recyclable food packaging materials as the need for environmentally friendly products has increased from the circular economy point of view. The number of inquiries for EVAL™ resin has increased. This is because this barrier material does not disrupt the recycling streams of polyolefins. The demand for EVAL™ resin is expected to be increased globally, in particular in Europe and the United States.
As a major producer of EVOH and barrier materials, Kuraray aims to further expand its business and continue to contribute to improvements to the natural and living environments.
Overview of the Investment:
| Company name | Kuraray Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd. |
| Head Office | 10 Sakra Ave., Singapore 627887 |
| Production capacity | EVOH resin, 18,000 tons/year (The front-end process will be constructed with a capacity of 36,000 t/y with a view to future expansion. The back-end process is divided into two phases, with the first phase being implemented at this time.) |
| Start of operation | End of 2026 |
| Investment amount | US$410 million |
Source: Kuraray
