Covestro has started to construct a new manufacturing line for polycarbonate films at Map Ta Phut Industrial Estate, Thailand. With this new capacity, the company will serve the fast-growing demand in the Asia Pacific and strengthen its own position as a market leader. The project is the first step of a global capacity increase for Covestro's film production. The total investment of more than €100 million ($114 million) also includes an expansion of the associated infrastructure and logistics.

“Our existing films plant in Map Ta Phut has been a high-performing and valued facility,” said Dr. Thorsten Dreier, Global Head of Covestro's Specialty Films Business, at the ground-breaking ceremony. “Our main objective with this expansion is to intensify our collaboration with customers in the Asia Pacific, in particular, to improve efficiency and punctual delivery. With market-focused innovations and a stronger customer orientation we want to drive growth for Covestro.”

Thorsten Dreier added, “This is an excellent strategic fit, enabling fastest time-to-market, but also broadening our market access in Asia. Not least, we have highly-skilled employees at our existing plant, which will also ensure the success of the new project,” added Thorsten Dreier.

The existing films facility started operations in January 2007 and produces Makrofol polycarbonate and Bayfol polycarbonate blend films, which are used in industry sectors such as security and ID cards, automotive, medical, as well as electrical and electronics. It produces a selection of grades, including new optical grades, and the new facility is designed to extend the range of products in response to market demand. PC films allow seamless integration of multifunctional displays in vehicle interiors.