In the News

Japan investment project kicks off in Taoyuan

Newly launched Taiwan Nicca Chemical Co. Ltd. plant is set to become a key surfactant supplier for the local textile industry. (Courtesy of MOEA)

• Publication Date：07/17/2012
• Source： Taiwan Today
• By  Meg Chang

A Japan-invested textile surfactant plant opened in Taoyuan County July 17, signaling a strong vote of confidence in Taiwan’s robust business environment.

Situated in Taoyuan High-Tech Industrial Park, the factory is operated by the local subsidiary of central Japan-based Nicca Chemical Co. Ltd., a leading supplier of surfactants, industrial detergents, skin care and medical products.

“The Taiwan textile industry’s strong supply chain and highly flexible operations of its participants are some of the reasons for Nicca’s decision,” said Woody T.J. Duh, deputy minister of economic affairs, at the opening ceremony.

“We expect the project to further enhance the local supply chain’s value and pave the way for more economic exchanges between Taiwan and Japan,” he added.

The NT$800 million (US$26.7 million) northern Taiwan plant, which is expected to create 30 jobs, is the second facility operated by Nicca on the island. It is helping position Taiwan as the Japanese firm’s base of Southeast Asian operations, according to the Ministry of Economic Affairs.

Proposed during a November 2011 investment tour of Japan organized by the Council for Economic Planning and Development, the project is widely seen as a sign of Nicca’s growing commitment to Taiwan.

The MOEA said that in addition to its factories, Nicca will set up an R&D center as per a memorandum of understanding signed with the Taiwan Textile Research Institute during the CEPD-organized tour.

Japan investment in Taiwan has been on the rise as firms from the Northeast Asian nation look to establish backup bases of operation following the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami.

Earlier this month, Tokyo-based Furukawa Electric Co. Ltd. upped its stake in Taiwan with the opening of a second copper foil plant operated by its local subsidiary in Yunlin County. (JSM)

Write to Meg Chang at sfchang@mail.mofa.gov.tw