Sumitomo Chemical Establishes R&D Base in Brazil

Japan’s Sumitomo Chemical has chosen Brazil as the location for its first R&D center in Latin America. The Latin America Research Center will be set up during 2016 and be operated by wholly-owned subsidiary Sumitomo Chemical Brazil. It will conduct efficacy trials, R&D, and analyses of crop protection and other related products.

The facility will be located on a site of approximately 48 hectares, comprising a research building and an experimental field. Investment costs were not disclosed.

Sumitomo said the center is expected to accelerate product development as it will be able to carry out detailed, highly reliable field trials and research, geared specifically to the climactic conditions of the Latin American market, a strategically important region for the company’s crop protection products business.

Latin America’s crop protection market has been growing rapidly in recent years and currently accounts for around 25% of the global market. Sumitomo said the region is likely to see greater growth in agricultural production in the years ahead, hence higher demand for crop protection products.

Going forward, Sumitomo said it will “vigorously work to fortify and expand the business in Latin America.”

Free Virtual Event

Sustainability in Bioprocessing
Bioprocess Forum

Sustainability in Bioprocessing

Join us to explore hot topics in sustainable bioprocessing like the industrial potential of enzymatic synthesis, innovative biocatalysis techniques, and the use of digital twins in bioprocessing.

Interview

Specialty Chemicals in a Shifting World
Adapting to Tariffs and Strengthening Regional Networks

Specialty Chemicals in a Shifting World

Jennifer Abril, President & CEO of SOCMA, discusses the impact of new tariffs and the importance of regional supply networks in the specialty chemical industry.