Tokuyama Corporation Scales Down VCM Production Usage in Tokuyama

Tokuyama Corporation, a prominent player in the Japanese petrochemical industry, has made a strategic decision to curtail production at its vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) plant located in Tokuyama, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan. The reduction in utilization amounts to a noteworthy 20 percent, driven by commercial considerations. Sources within the company have revealed that in January, the operational capacity of this facility, boasting a yearly production potential of 330 thousand tons of VCM, was scaled back by approximately 20% due to a decline in profitability.

Earlier reports indicated that Tokuyama Corporation, recognized as a major manufacturer of petrochemical products in Japan, initiated a temporary cessation of production at the vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) plant in Tokuyama in early April 2023. The purpose behind this production hiatus was the execution of scheduled maintenance activities. The repair and maintenance work at this facility, equipped to produce 330 thousand tons of VCM annually, extended throughout the month, concluding at the end of April 2023.

Vinyl chloride serves as the primary raw material in the synthesis of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), making it a crucial component in various industries. Tokuyama Corporation, headquartered in Tokyo, stands as the fourth-largest silicone producer globally. The company has a rich history, tracing its roots back to its establishment in 1918 under the name Nihon Soda Kogyo Co., Ltd. Subsequent to its inception, the company underwent name changes in 1936 to Tokuyama Soda Co., Ltd., and in 1994 to its current designation, Tokuyama Corporation. The diverse product portfolio of Tokuyama Corporation includes caustic soda and vinyl chloride.

Operational across multiple countries, Tokuyama Corporation's presence extends to Japan, China, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, the United States, and Germany. The company's extensive reach underscores its commitment to serving global markets and contributing to various industrial sectors through the production and distribution of essential petrochemical products.

Tokuyama Corporation's decision to reduce the utilization of its VCM plant in Tokuyama by 20 percent reflects a pragmatic response to prevailing market dynamics, specifically a decrease in profitability. The temporary production halt in April 2023 for scheduled maintenance aligns with the company's commitment to maintaining the efficiency and reliability of its facilities. As a key player in the global petrochemical landscape, Tokuyama Corporation continues to adapt to industry challenges while upholding its legacy of excellence and innovation. The strategic adjustments made by the company underscore its resilience and flexibility in navigating the complexities of the petrochemical sector.