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NatureWorks’ global Ingeo PLA manufacturing expansion plan continues with the recent announcement that the company’s parent companies, GC International Corp., sub. of Thailand’s (GC) and have authorized an investment in excess of $600 million to build a new fully-integrated PLA manufacturing complex in Thailand.

NatureWorks will begin construction of the complex in second quarter 2022. It will include production sites for lactic acid, lactide, and polymer, making it the world’s first PLA facility designed to be fully integrated. To be located at the Nakhon Sawan Biocomplex (NBC) in Nakhon Sawan Province, the complex is expected to be operational in 2024. With an annual capacity of 165 million lbs of Ingeo biopolymer, it will produce the full portfolio of Ingeo grades.

The expanded global production of Ingeo biopolymers will support growth in markets including 3D printing and hygiene as well as compostable coffee capsules, tea bags, flexible packaging, and food serviceware that demand sustainable, low-carbon materials and require the high-performance attributes that Ingeo is uniquely suited to deliver.

Said NatureWorks’ president & CEO Rich Altice, “Thanks to the ongoing support of our parent companies, our plans for a second Ingeo PLA manufacturing location continue to progress. This authorization was an important milestone that ensures we will be ready to begin construction in 2022 on an integrated manufacturing complex that will help us address the increasing global market demand for sustainable materials.”