Perstorp and BRB, both wholly-owned subsidiaries of PETRONAS Chemicals Group Berhad (PCG), have officially inaugurated a new, state-of-the-art innovation hub in Shanghai, China. The advanced laboratory, which commenced operations on April 17, is set to bolster the companies' presence in the region by significantly enhancing technical support for customers, with a strong emphasis on the burgeoning Asian market.

This strategic investment underscores PCG's commitment to strengthening its position as a leading specialty chemicals provider. The Shanghai innovation hub will serve as a crucial resource, enabling faster response times to customer inquiries and needs. It will combine deep technical expertise with a sharp focus on product and application development, as well as the provision of comprehensive technical services.

The inauguration of the Shanghai hub is part of a broader initiative by PCG to enhance its innovation capabilities across the value chain. By establishing this hub, Perstorp and BRB aim to be more agile and responsive to the evolving needs of their customers in the region. The facility is designed to facilitate closer collaboration with clients, enabling the development of tailored solutions that address specific market demands.

The innovation hub will cater to a diverse range of market segments, reflecting the breadth of Perstorp and BRB's product portfolio. Key sectors that will benefit from the enhanced capabilities of the hub include:

• Synthetic Lubricants: Development of advanced lubricant solutions.

• Thermal Management Fluids: Creation of innovative fluids for heat transfer applications.

• Personal Care: Formulation and testing of ingredients for personal care products.

• Coating Solutions: Development of high-performance coatings for various applications.

• Silicones and Intermediates: Support for the existing silicones business.

Dr Debbie Chiu, COO of PCG Specialty Chemicals, emphasized the strategic importance of this investment, stating, "This investment reinforces our commitment to innovation and co-creation with our customers, as well as strengthening our global presence. It reflects our growth agenda, our strong ambition and commitment to progress."

Dr. Axel Tuchlenski, Head of Innovation at PCG Specialty Chemicals, further elaborated on the benefits of the new hub: "With faster response times and reduced time to market, we are equipped to anticipate industry trends and deliver tailored solutions that meet our customers’ needs. This platform will enable more face-to-face interactions with customers in the Greater China and Asian market, to develop innovative solutions that align with market demands."