Kuraray Trading will double the production capacity of “mintval,” water-soluble fibers used when manufacturing high-value added fibers. The inquiry for “mintval” has been increasing as it is essential to produce soft cotton fabrics, for example. “Mintval” is recognized as an eco-friendly material in foreign countries tightening environmental regulation. In preparation for demands expected to increase in the future, Kuraray invested about 600 million yen in Saijo plant in Ehime to strengthen the spinning facility. The new spinning line is scheduled to start its operation from January, 2017.

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