Mitsubishi Chemical to expand its OPL film production capacity in Japan

Mitsubishi Chemical Group (MCG Group) announced on October 17 that it plans to significantly expand its production capacity for OPL film. OPL film is a high-performance optical polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) film used in polarizers for liquid crystal displays (LCDs) in televisions. The expansion will take place at Mitsubishi Chemical's Central Japan Ogaki (Kanda) Plant in Ogaki City, Gifu Prefecture, Japan.

The newly upgraded plant will be able to produce 27 million square meters of OPL film per year. Once the expansion is completed, MCG Group's total OPL Film™ production capacity is expected to reach a staggering 154 million square meters per year, consolidating its position as a leading manufacturer of this key component in the LCD industry.

The upgraded plant is scheduled to be operational in the second half of fiscal 2027, when demand for OPL film products will surge. The surge in demand is driven by the growing popularity of large-size LCD screens in televisions and other electronic devices. MCG Group's decision to expand its production capacity underscores its commitment to meeting the growing market demand for high-quality OPL films.

The new production facility will have the largest single-line production capacity within the MCG Group. It will feature state-of-the-art technology, enabling it to produce higher-quality, more efficient OPL films than conventional methods.

The expansion project is in line with MCG Group's strategic focus on sustainable growth and innovation. By investing in advanced production facilities, the company aims to strengthen its competitiveness and meet the evolving needs of its customers.