Mitsui Chemicals raises breathable film capacity in Thailand

Mitsui Chemicals, Inc. announced the expansion of its manufacturing facilities for breathable films at its wholly-owned Mitsui Hygiene Materials (Thailand) Co., Ltd. The Thai subsidiary produces non-wovens and breathable films for use in premium diapers and serves growing demand throughout East and Southeast Asia.

Both domestic and export markets for Japan-made premium baby diapers have been rising substantially. In addition, premium disposal diapers demand in Southeast Asia has grown significantly and the market boom is expected to continue. Mitsui Chemicals’ breathable film is widely recognized for its performance and good printability, both important requirements for premium diapers.

The facility in Thailand is located in the Eastern Seaboard Industrial Area, Rayong Province. It was established in 2001 at a capital of Bahts 1,310 million. The existing facility has a total capacity of 6,700 tons annually and the additional capacility of 4,200 tons will raise capacity to 10,900 tons/annually. The additional facility starts construction in November 2015 with target completion by November 2016 and commercial operation by January 2017.