BASF and Hannong Chemicals inaugurate Seosan NIS plant, boosting regional supply, innovation, and global production network for diverse industries.
BASF Hannong Chemicals Solutions Ltd. (BHCS), a joint venture formed by BASF and Hannong Chemicals, has officially inaugurated a new production facility dedicated to non-ionic surfactants (NIS) in the Daesan Industrial Complex, located in Seosan, Chungcheongnam-do, Korea. This milestone marks a significant step forward in strengthening regional manufacturing capabilities and supporting growing demand across Asia.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by several prominent figures from both the public and private sectors. Among the notable attendees were Tae-heum Kim, Governor of Chungcheongnam-do; Wan-seop Lee, Mayor of Seosan; Daniel Wussow, incoming President of Care Chemicals at BASF (effective April 1, 2026); Woo Suk Lee, Managing Director of BASF Korea; Eung-sang Kim, CEO of Hannong Chemicals; and Sang-ho Kyung, President of Hannong Chemicals. Their presence highlighted the strategic importance of the project for regional industrial growth and international collaboration.
Constructed on a site spanning approximately 12,234 square meters, the facility is operated by BHCS under a joint ownership structure, with BASF holding a 51% stake and Hannong Chemicals owning the remaining 49%. The plant began its trial operations in January 2026, demonstrating early operational readiness ahead of its formal inauguration. The project also benefited from strong support by local authorities, including Chungcheongnam-do Province and the Seosan municipal government, which facilitated infrastructure enhancements such as the installation of a swing tank. This addition is expected to significantly improve production flexibility and ensure a more reliable supply chain.
The new facility represents a combination of BASF’s advanced technological expertise and product innovation capabilities with Hannong Chemicals’ efficient and high-quality manufacturing processes. This synergy is designed to ensure the consistent production and delivery of premium non-ionic surfactants to customers across various Asian markets. Looking ahead, the companies plan to expand the site’s capabilities to include the production of specialty surfactants, further reinforcing BASF’s global manufacturing footprint and diversifying its product portfolio.
Non-ionic surfactants produced at the Seosan plant have a wide range of industrial applications. They are essential components in sectors such as chemicals, agriculture, cosmetics, and personal care, as well as in polymer production and polyurethane (PU) foam stabilization. Their versatility and performance characteristics make them critical ingredients in many everyday and industrial products.
Daniel Wussow emphasized that the collaboration with Hannong Chemicals will enable BASF to better serve customers in one of the fastest-growing regions globally. He noted that the new plant strengthens BASF’s global production network and enhances its responsiveness to evolving customer needs across multiple industries. Meanwhile, Eung-sang Kim highlighted the significance of establishing a production base that integrates world-class technology with manufacturing excellence. He stated that the new facility will enhance Hannong Chemicals’ competitiveness in the non-ionic surfactants market while enabling the company to deliver higher-quality products and tailored solutions to its customers.
Overall, the inauguration of this new NIS facility underscores the strategic value of international partnerships and innovation-driven growth in the global chemicals industry.
