August 25, 2025

Pasadena Welcomes New Chemical Production Plant

News Summary

Pasadena, Texas, has welcomed a new tertiary amine production plant by Kao Corporation. This facility aims to boost the local economy and reduce CO2 emissions by supplying essential chemical ingredients locally. With an annual capacity of 20,000 tons, it enhances the efficiency of the chemical supply chain while aligning with Kao’s sustainable goals and growth strategy. The new facility not only focuses on production but also encourages collaboration with external partners for derivative products, contributing positively to the community and environment.

Texas – Kao Corporation has inaugurated a new tertiary amine production plant in Pasadena, Texas, on August 22, 2025. This state-of-the-art facility has an annual production capacity of 20,000 tons, significantly bolstering the company’s ability to supply essential chemical ingredients for disinfectants and cleaners in the United States market. The U.S. market for these products is expected to grow steadily in the mid- to long-term.

The establishment of the Pasadena plant is a strategic move for Kao, enhancing the efficiency of its supply chain while also addressing environmental concerns. Localized production will help reduce transportation-related CO2 emissions, aligning with global sustainability goals. Tertiary amines, the key chemical components produced at this facility, are integral to the manufacturing of various surfactants.

Kao Corporation, a Japan-based manufacturer with a rich history spanning over 130 years in innovation and chemistry, previously relied on its three production sites in Japan, the Philippines, and Germany for its global supply of tertiary amines. The Pasadena plant successfully completes a three-production-site system, with facilities now operational in the U.S., Europe, and Asia. This strategic framework is designed to ensure a faster and more stable supply of tertiary amines to markets worldwide.

The construction process for the Pasadena plant spanned two and a half years. The facility covers an expansive area of 45 hectares, with potential for collaborative production of derivative products in partnership with external entities. The concentration on collaboration underscores Kao’s ambition to strengthen the entire value chain within the chemical ecosystem.

Kao’s Chemical Business, which oversees this new plant, is rooted in the company’s Global Sharp Top business strategy and is a core element of its Mid-term Plan 2027 (K27). The inauguration of the Pasadena plant is a significant milestone in the company’s efforts to enhance its operational capabilities while prioritizing product quality and safety.

President of Kao’s Chemical Business expressed satisfaction with the successful completion of the plant’s construction, emphasizing the integration of unique technologies and stringent quality controls that define Kao’s production standards. The new facility is expected to not only support current demands but also foster innovation in product development through potential partnerships.

As Kao Corporation continues to grow, with approximately 1,630 billion yen in annual sales and a global workforce of about 32,600 employees, this expansion into the U.S. market signifies the company’s commitment to maintaining a leading position in the manufacturing of personal care products, household goods, cosmetics, and specialty chemicals. The Pasadena plant illustrates Kao’s dedication to enhancing sustainability while providing critical components for everyday cleaning solutions.

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Author: STAFF HERE GEORGETOWN

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