Kuraray expands poval film production in Japan to meet growing LCD demand, supporting its long-term growth and sustainability strategy.
Kuraray Co., Ltd. has announced its decision to expand production facilities for optical-use poval film at its Saijo Plant in Saijo City, Ehime Prefecture, Japan. This film is used as a base material for polarizing films, which are essential components in liquid crystal displays (LCDs). The decision to expand follows increasing market demand, particularly driven by the trend toward larger television screens, which require wider LCD panels.
As the size of LCD panels continues to grow, the demand for wider optical-use poval films has risen accordingly. These films form the foundation of polarizing films, which play a critical role in LCD performance. Recognizing this trend, Kuraray has decided to invest in additional production capacity to ensure a reliable and consistent supply to the market. The new production line being added at the Saijo Plant will be capable of manufacturing wider optical-use poval films, including those compatible with 3-meter-wide polarizing films, supporting the needs of the expanding display market.
Currently, the Saijo Plant has an annual production capacity of 296 million square meters of optical-use poval film. With the planned expansion, Kuraray will add 38 million square meters per year, increasing the total capacity to 334 million square meters annually. The newly expanded production line is scheduled to begin operations in December 2027. By enhancing its manufacturing capabilities, Kuraray aims to solidify its position as a global leader in the optical-use poval film industry.
This expansion is a key part of Kuraray’s broader strategic direction under its five-year Medium-Term Management Plan, “PASSION 2026,” which runs through the company’s 100th anniversary year in 2026. The company is also advancing its long-term vision, “Kuraray Vision 2026,” which aims to transform Kuraray into a specialty chemical company that delivers value to customers, contributes positively to society, and fosters sustainability for the planet. To achieve this, Kuraray continues to incorporate new technological platforms and invest in areas that support sustainable growth.
By expanding its production infrastructure and focusing on high-quality, innovative products, Kuraray is reinforcing its commitment to supporting customer needs across a growing and increasingly sophisticated display industry. The company remains dedicated to maintaining a stable supply chain while actively pursuing product development and quality enhancements that align with emerging market requirements.
Kuraray manufactures a wide array of chemical products, including specialty chemicals, resins, films, and elastomers. Its portfolio features thermoplastic elastomers such as SEPTON™ and HYBRAR™, the acrylic block copolymer KURARITY™, and a variety of isoprene-based chemicals. The company also produces activated carbon products, including KURARAY COAL™ grades for air and water purification. Additionally, Kuraray is a leading innovator in advanced interlayer technologies, offering high-performance materials like EVAL™ high barrier films and MOWITAL™ PVB resins.
