Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Co.

Tokyo-based Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Company announced that it will construct a Nylon-MXD6 production facility in Chesterfield County. The new production plant, based on Mitsubishi’s proprietary polymer technology, will be an investment of $14,000,000 and is expected to employ 30 new workers.

Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Company is the world’s leading supplier of Nylon-MXD6. With headquarters in Tokyo, Japan, Mitsubishi develops, produces and markets top-quality polymers combining copolymer and additive technologies.

“Mitsubishi made this decision for several reasons,” said Sam Suzuki, marketing manager of the New York office. “First and most importantly, we wanted to provide better service and a more reliable supply to our customers in North America. In addition, all the environments in the area are well-suited to producing high quality nylon. It’s a state-of-the-art facility placed in an ideal location.”

“We’re pleased that Mitsubishi Gas Chemical has selected the Ruffin Mill Industrial Park in Southern Chesterfield for this production facility,” said Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors Chairman Kelly Miller. “Having met with the company early in the decision making process, I know they will be a welcome addition to the growing number of Japanese businesses already located in Chesterfield County,” Miller said. The Ruffin Mill Industrial Park is part of the Walthall Enterprise Zone.

Chesterfield County Administrator Lane B. Ramsey added, “Mitsubishi’s decision to locate in Chesterfield County underscores the county’s attractiveness as a viable location for high-tech manufacturing.”

The company is planning on breaking ground at the end of 2002, with production to begin April 2004. “Demand for Nylon-MXD6 has been growing globally,” Suzuki said. “Mitsubishi Gas Chemical is committed to the Nylon-MXD6 business as a key contributor to our global growth mission, so we are taking every action we can to meet the evolving needs of our customers.”

The company has successfully completed the expansion projects that began in early 2001 and owns approximately 30 million lbs. of production capabilities in Niigata, Japan. This new plant is based on innovative technology developed and patented by Mitsubishi.

The Chestefield County Department of Economic Development was assisted by the Greater Richmond Partnership and the Virginia Economic Development Partnership in securing this project for Chesterfield County.