New facility increases Cariflex’s global manufacturing capacity, with future expansion already enabled to meet growing market demand in the foreseeable future
The inauguration, officiated by Dr. Tan See Leng, Singapore’s Minister for Manpower and Second Minister for Trade and Industry, took place in November 2024. Attendees included H.E. Hong Jin Wook, South Korea’s Ambassador, Kim Jong Hyun, CEO of DL Chemical, Ryu Sang Woo, CEO of Cariflex, Prakash Kolluri of Kraton, Lim Wey-Len of the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB), and Christine Wong of JTC.
Ryu Sang Woo, Cariflex’s CEO, stated: “We have strategically located our new facility here in Singapore, at the doorstep of our key customers. Singapore’s thriving financial, innovation, and logistics hubs, along with a highly skilled workforce and strong IP protection, made this the ideal choice for our investment.” He added: “This new facility will allow us to expand production, while providing our customers with a diverse and reliable supply of high-quality materials, reinforcing our leadership in the global polyisoprene latex market.”
Supported by EDB and JTC, the 6.1-hectare plant strengthens Cariflex’s ability to serve Southeast Asia’s medical manufacturing sector. Construction began in 2022, with operations starting in November 2024. Designed for modular expansion, the facility is expected to double Cariflex’s 2023 production capacity when fully operational. The plant has created about 80 permanent jobs, mostly for Singaporeans, with training programs in Brazil and South Korea to enhance skills in operations, safety, and digital systems.
Lim Wey-Len of EDB remarked: “This new facility reflects Cariflex’s confidence in Singapore as a gateway to serve robust regional demand for specialty chemicals and as a key supply chain node for healthcare and hygiene markets.” Christine Wong of JTC added: “JTC is pleased to welcome Cariflex to Jurong Island. Cariflex’s expertise in high-value, high-quality chemical products adds to the growing diversity of specialty chemicals produced on the island.”
Located in Jurong Island’s chemical hub, the plant uses a Direct-Connect production model to enhance efficiency and reduce carbon emissions compared to traditional methods. This sustainable approach minimizes environmental impact and improves supply chain reliability. Cariflex, headquartered in Singapore since 2020, is the only global producer of anionic catalyst-based synthetic rubber and latex, valued for its purity and comfort in medical applications. The facility positions Cariflex to explore new markets, including non-surgical gloves, adhesives, and laminates, while meeting growing demand in regions like the United States.
