Cariflex, a manufacturer of polyisoprene rubber latex for medical end markets, has started construction on a $350m polyisoprene latex plant in Jurong Island, Singapore.

According to Cariflex, the polyisoprene latex factory in Singapore will play an important role in its manufacturing supply versatility for catering to its customers in Southeast Asia.

To be built on a 6.1 hectares site, the polyisoprene latex plant in Jurong Island is likely to begin operations by the second half of 2024. The facility will generate at least 70 permanent jobs for its first phase in engineering, quality, production, supply chain, and other manufacturing support functions.

During the peak stage of construction, Cariflex anticipates employing over 1,500 workers onsite.

Prakash Kolluri — Cariflex CEO said: “We are strategically locating our new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility here in Singapore, at the doorstep of our key customers. We value Singapore not only for its ability to foster a thriving financial hub, but also for its dedication to develop innovation, trade, and logistical hubs.

“With a highly educated and skilled workforce, Singapore offers strong protection for intellectual property rights within the country’s politically stable framework. Additionally, the Jurong Island ecosystem, with all of the existing infrastructure and services as well as support from Singapore’s Economic Development Board and other government agencies, gave us confidence in our investment decision in Singapore.”

Cariflex, which has been based in Singapore since 2020, is a fully-owned subsidiary of DL Chemical, which is a petrochemical company and a part of South Korea-based DL Group.

  Cariflex, Jurong Island, Prakash Kolluri, Singapore