Asahi Kasei will strengthen its nonwoven products. Asahi Kasei is in full production of a suede leather “Lamous” due to a good demand for car interior materials. Asahi Kasei will launch an expansion of the production capacity with a view to the first overseas production, in its next medium-term management plan starting from 2019. Asahi Kasei will explore a full entry into the European, North American and Chinese markets. Also, its polypropylene spunbond nonwoven is considered to be further strengthened the annual production capacity by 20,000 tons in Thailand, following the expansion implemented in 2015. The demands of polypropylene spunbond nonwoven have been increasing for disposable diaper use. Regarding its cellulose filament nonwoven “Bemliease,” Asahi Kasei has already decided strengthening for the strong demand of face masks in China, as well as it sets out to newly develop its application for medical use.

JCFA News Letter (No.13) November, 2016/Japan Chemical Fibers Association