US firm Huntsman Corporation recently held an inauguration ceremony to mark the official opening of its US$40 million Asia Pacific Technology Centre (ATC) in Shanghai’s Minhang Economic & Technological Development Zone.

The new facility forms an integrated technology and innovation campus together with the existing technology centre that was opened in September 2008. It includes machine halls, laboratories and offices and can accommodate up to 400 technical experts and will complement existing technology centres in The Woodlands, US, and Brussels, Belgium, as well as smaller regional centres.

The event was hosted by Huntsman’s Founder and Chairman, Jon M. Huntsman and its CEO Asia Pacific, Anthony P. Hankins.

Tony Hankins commented: “The Asia Pacific ATC investment reflects Huntsman’s long-term commitment to grow in partnership with our customers in this key market. We now have a world-class technology facility in Shanghai, employing talented local scientists, developing fit-for-purpose applications that are suited to the specific needs of our customers across the region. We started construction of the facility in February 2012 and in close cooperation with the Shanghai Minhang United Development Co. Ltd. and the Government of Minhang District, the Centre was completed on schedule in June. We appreciate their strong commitment and I sincerely thank them for all their support in the creation of this outstanding facility.”