This collaboration will focus on the localized production and innovation of Eastman's Naia™ cellulose acetate filament yarns.
Eastman, a global specialty materials company, has officially announced a new strategic partnership with Huafon Chemical to establish a joint manufacturing facility in China. The collaboration is designed to produce cellulose acetate yarn, with a specific focus on localizing the production and product innovation of Eastman’s Naia™ cellulose acetate filament yarns. This move represents a significant commitment by Eastman to the Chinese market, which is recognized as the world's largest textile supply chain hub and a center for technological innovation.
The new facility will enable Eastman to scale up its capacity and enhance the development capabilities of its Naia™ yarn, which is known for its luxurious comfort, quick-drying properties, and sustainable profile. According to Ruth Farrell, General Manager of Eastman’s Textiles business, this partnership is a key step in fulfilling the company's promise to make sustainable textiles more accessible. By having a localized production base, Eastman can create a more agile supply chain that can respond more effectively to the region's increasing demand for innovative and sustainable textile materials.
Huafon Chemical, a prominent Chinese group that acquired DuPont Biomaterials in 2022, will bring its local expertise and resources to the partnership. Congdeng Yang, director of the Huafon-Eastman collaboration program, highlighted the synergy of the collaboration, stating that it will combine local advantages with international resources. The goal is to establish a fully localized chain—from technological innovation and product development to production and service—and collectively drive the sustainable development of the textiles industry.
This strategic venture is well-timed with the growing demand for sustainable materials in the global textile industry, especially in a major production hub like China. The market for cellulose acetate fiber is projected to see significant growth in the coming years, with China being a major consumer. By localizing production, the partnership can leverage a more efficient and responsive supply chain, reducing lead times and ensuring a steady supply of high-quality materials for Chinese textile manufacturers.
The joint facility will not only serve the Chinese market but also contribute to the broader global textile landscape by promoting sustainable practices. Naia™ cellulose acetate yarn is derived from sustainably sourced wood pulp, aligning with the industry's shift toward more eco-conscious and circular solutions. This partnership with a major local player like Huafon Chemical strengthens Eastman's market position and provides a platform for continued innovation in sustainable textile materials.
