Cariflex Pte Ltd, a leader in polyisoprene rubber latex, has inaugurated the world’s largest polyisoprene latex plant on Jurong Island, Singapore, following a substantial investment of over $355m. The facility, officially opened on 14 May 2025, aims to meet the rising demand for high-quality synthetic latex used in medical and protective applications.
The plant’s inauguration was attended by Singapore’s Minister for Manpower and Second Minister for Trade and Industry, Tan See Leng, alongside other distinguished guests including the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, Hong Jin Wook, and executives from DL Chemical and Cariflex. The new facility, spanning 61 hectares, is strategically positioned to serve Southeast Asia’s critical manufacturing sites for surgical gloves and condoms.
Cariflex CEO, Ryu Sang Woo, highlighted Singapore’s advantages, stating, “Singapore’s thriving financial, innovation, and logistics hubs, along with a highly skilled workforce and strong IP protection, made this the ideal choice for our investment.” The plant, which began construction in 2022 and commenced operations in November 2024, is designed for modular expansion to accommodate future demand growth.
The opening of the plant aligns with Singapore’s push to develop high-value, innovation-driven industries, creating approximately 80 new permanent roles, primarily filled by Singaporeans. Cariflex has invested in talent development through training programmes in Brazil and Korea, focusing on operations, safety, quality, and digital systems. This expansion reinforces Cariflex’s leadership in the global polyisoprene latex market, doubling its 2023 manufacturing capacity.
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