Customer Showcase: Kusumoto Chemicals (Thailand) Co., Ltd. - Blooming Innovation for the Future in Industrial and Commercial Additives

February 2017 marked the grand opening ceremony for Kusomoto Chemicals (Thailand) Co. Ltd, a subsidiary with main headquarters in Tokyo, at Hemaraj Eastern Seaboard Industrial Estate (HESIE). Their core business in Thailand includes manufacturing and distribution of additives, alongside dealing in commercial chemical products, and manufacturing and distribution of environmental testing equipment. The company celebrated its 90th year in business in 2016, with the Thai factory as their third production base overseas following China and India.

Their focus on the local market is the key aspiration behind setting up in Thailand. With around 60% intended for the Thai market, company president Mr. Keita Kusumoto explains that the advantages of local production, with procurement of raw materials locally and lower total costs, means reliance on imports from Japan is no longer needed. Quality control is also easier and customers can receive technical support and services attached to their Thai factory.

In deciding on HESIE as their site, many factors combined to Mr. Kusumoto’s satisfaction, including the hillside location with no risk of flooding, being close to Laem Chabang port, the extensive highway network and convenience in transportation, and the area holding rich labor resources. Furthermore, he found Hemaraj’s staff to be extremely responsive and skilled during consultations.

With a total area of approximately 8 rai, their Thai factory is highly automated, and a small number of capable employees produce products which are equal to those made in Japan in terms of quality and performance. Enough open space has been reserved, so they may expand production lines in future.

Remarks: The article was written for WHA Newsletter November 2017 Vol. 38 No. 2.