PASADENA, TX - Kuraray America Inc. (Kuraray), a global leader in specialty chemical, fiber and resin production, will celebrate the grand opening of its new, green-field KURARAY POVAL™ plant in Pasadena, TX, on April 21, 2016. The opening of this plant further distinguishes Kuraray as the largest producer of polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) in the world. KURARAY POVAL is used in a wide range of industries, including paper, textile, emulsion, PVC, construction, adhesives, packaging and oil.

Situated on 81 acres of land, the new KURARAY POVALTM plant will produce 40,000 metric tons of PVOH annually and employs a total workforce of nearly 100 employees. Kuraray’s strategy for growth within the Houston area is due to developments in natural gas exploration technology, specifically shale gas, and the excellence of area infrastructure and ideal workforce.

Kuraray’s grand opening festivities will be infused with traditional Japanese customs, including a samurai sword ribbon cutting, Daruma painting of the eye and a Kagamiwari (sake barrel) ceremony. These activities will be followed by lunch, a press conference and guided plant tour.