Afton Chemical Corporation opened the first phase of its additive plant on Jurong Island, Singapore on May 17, which was marked by a special visit by Singapore’s Minister for Trade and Industry S. Iswaran.

The facility will now commence production of key components that are used in Afton Chemical’s engine oil additives to meet rising regional and global demand.

“Today’s opening marks the end of a significant development and construction process at our new, fully owned facility, which began back in 2014,” said Rob Shama, president, Afton Chemical.

“More importantly, it marks the start of a new chapter where we are able to better secure the supply of key components for our customers to be able to meet their future growth aspirations.”

The opening of the plant represents a new phase of Afton Chemical’s ongoing expansion into Asia Pacific, and is central to the company’s plans to ensure that its specialist additive products are “Made in Asia for Asia.”  The company’s “Made in Asia” strategy is aimed at ensuring it has the right supply footprint to meet its customer’s needs.   

The organisation already manages a number of other facilities across the region, including  technology centers, in Suzhou, China, and in Tsukuba Japan.  It’s “Made for Asia” strategy also ensures that the products and services it offers are developed on the basis of regional insights.   

“This new manufacturing facility serves as a real vote of confidence in Singapore, a country with a robust infrastructure and a well-established position as a petrochemicals and supply hub.  This plant will further strengthen our global supply network, and help us and our customers to capitalise on the continuing migration of upstream capacities into the region,” said  Teddy Gottwald, president and CEO of NewMarket Corporation, the parent company of Afton Chemical.

The second phase of the USD 300 million plant is scheduled for commissioning in 2018.