Mitsui Chemicals announced the successful February startup of manufacturing facilities for breathable films at its wholly owned Mitsui Hygiene Materials (Thailand) Co., Ltd., a manufacturer and distributor of nonwovens and breathable films for use in premium diapers, to cope with growing demands throughout East and Southeast Asia.

The company has added 4200 tons/year of its Espoir breathable film, which now totals 10,900 tons/year at the facility.

Mitsui positions its healthcare business as a targeted business domain that drives growth, in addition to Mobility and the Food & Packaging domains. Its nonwoven business, which is part of the healthcare business sector, aims to further expand by supplying premium diaper manufacturers in the growing markets of Japan and the rest of Asia.

In the premium baby diapers market, demand for Japan-made premium baby diapers and spread of premium diapers in Southeast Asia have grown significantly and the market boom is expected to continue.

Mitsui's breathable film has been widely recognized by east and southeastern manufacturers for its excellent performance and good printability, both important requirements for premium diapers, and as a result has shown healthy sales growth.

The company says it will continue to respond to growing demands for its breathable films by bolstering its cost-competitive production system and consolidating its leading position in East and Southeast Asia while strengthening and expanding its business.