Cariflex Establishes Global Production Hub with Singapore Mega-Facility
Singapore, May 2025 – Cariflex Pte Ltd, a subsidiary of DL Chemical Co Ltd and global leader in synthetic rubber latex, has officially opened the world’s largest polyisoprene latex manufacturing plant on Jurong Island, Singapore. The $355 million facility significantly expands production capacity for medical and protective products, reinforcing Singapore’s position as a key advanced manufacturing hub.
Key Highlights of the New Plant
✔ $355 million investment – One of the largest in specialty latex production
✔ 6.1-hectare facility – Doubles Cariflex’s 2023 output capacity
✔ Serves growing demand for surgical gloves, condoms, and medical adhesives
✔ Modular design allows future expansion
✔ 80+ high-skilled jobs created, mostly filled by Singaporean talent
Strategic Location for Global Supply Chains
The plant strengthens Cariflex’s presence in Southeast Asia—a critical region for medical device manufacturing. It complements existing facilities in Brazil and Japan, creating a truly global production network.
“This facility places us closer to major customers and supports advanced manufacturing with high-purity, consistent-quality materials,” said Ryu Sang Woo, CEO of Cariflex.
Singapore’s Advanced Manufacturing Push
The inauguration was attended by:
- Dr. Tan See Leng, Singapore’s Minister for Manpower & Second Minister for Trade and Industry
- Economic Development Board (EDB) and JTC Corporation representatives
- Republic of Korea’s embassy officials (DL Chemical is Korea-based)
The project aligns with Singapore’s vision to grow innovation-driven industries that provide high-value jobs. Cariflex has implemented extensive training programs, including:
- Digital manufacturing systems upskilling
- Structured mentorship for non-degree holders
- Safety and operational excellence protocols
Why Polyisoprene Latex Matters
Cariflex is the only global producer of anionic catalyst-based synthetic latex, prized for:
- High transparency & purity – Critical for medical applications
- Superior softness & elasticity – Ideal for surgical gloves, condoms
- Consistent quality – Reduces defects in mass production
Future Growth & Market Expansion
With operations starting in November 2024, the plant will help meet rising global demand, particularly in:
- Medical gloves (post-pandemic demand remains strong)
- Pharmaceutical packaging
- Specialty adhesives & laminates
Cariflex relocated its global HQ to Singapore in 2020, deepening integration between R&D, manufacturing, and commercial operations. This expansion cements its leadership in the $2.5B+ polyisoprene latex market.
What This Means for the Industry
- Reduced supply chain risks – More regionalized production
- Higher-quality medical materials – Better performance in healthcare products
- Job creation in advanced manufacturing – Singapore strengthens its specialty chemicals sector