Wacker Chemie AG has launched two specialty silicone plants in Tsukuba, Japan, and Jincheon, South Korea, boosting its presence in Asia’s growth market. The investment, in the double-digit million-euro range, supports rising demand from the automotive and construction industries.

Asia is already one of WACKER’s most important sales regions. “We generate more than 40 percent of our sales in Asia. Our business activities in Japan and South Korea are major contributors,” said WACKER’s executive board member Angela Wörl, who is responsible for the Asia region. “The new production lines in Tsukuba and in Jincheon support our strategy to locate our manufacturing capabilities close to our customers in the region.”

WACKER’s Tsukuba expansion targets the automotive sector, particularly e-mobility. The new plant produces silicone-based thermal interface materials (TIM)—elastomers modified with additives for thermal conductivity.

The company has expanded silicone sealant production at its Jincheon, South Korea site to also meet rising demand in Asia. Originally relocated in 2018, the facility was operating at full capacity. WACKER says the new production line significantly increases output, reinforcing its position as a market leader for high-quality silicone sealants.