PHILIPPINES: Arkema opens new plant

French chemical producer Arkema said its unit has opened a new manufacturing plant in Misamis Oriental, Philippines, as part of its international expansion.

In a statement, Arkema said its specialty adhesives business line Bostik has expanded its cementitious powder production, with the opening of the facility.

The facility will manufacture products such as tile adhesives, wall finishing products and other construction systems. The production is based on Bostik’s polymer modified binder (PMB) technology.

“We are pleased to continue Bostik’s expansion in the Philippines with the opening of this new plant. Development in high growth geographic regions is one of the central components of our growth strategy and this new facility will enable us to significantly grow our construction business in this important market,” Bostik Senior Vice-President of Asia Jeffrey Merkt was quoted in the statement as saying.

Bostik, a leading global adhesive specialist, has been active in the Philippines since 2005.

The Arkema group has 137 production sites in 50 countries, and generates annual revenues of USD 7.5 billion.

Source: Daily “Business World Online”, Manila; 20 Apr 2016

(Syed Rashid Ali, Karachi, Pakistan)