BASF showcases Asia R&D facility

13/09/2013
BASF held a media day to showcase its latest research and development site in Shanghai, which it plans to extend in the near future by building a second facility for leather and textile chemicals on the site of its headquarters for Asia.

The site houses a EUR 55 million innovation lab and research centre, established in November 2012, housing 450 researchers in 35,000 square metres of space. It encompasses separate state-of the-art labs for wet-end processes and finishing technology, which its clients are free to use for their specific testing needs.

The German giant is striving for local production in all the major regions, and sees Asia as one of the main drivers for growth. The main focus at the site is chemicals for the automotive and high-end leather segment, and the team is working on developments for breathable, waterproof leather, among others.

“We have a very clear target to focus on growth and concrete action plans for our business operations,” said Zane Yu, head of regional business management. “We think automotive and premium leathers will be the growth points. Consumers are becoming more aware of ecology and our challenge will be to provide a sustainable solution for the industry. Innovation is a key driver of this.”

The visit was hosted by Mr Zane Yu and Dr Mei Yu, head of East Asia R&D for leather chemicals.