WACKER Unveils Major Investment as Zhangjiagang Expands with New Silicone Lines After 15 Years

On May 21, WACKER announced the completion of its largest single expansion in 15 years at its Zhangjiagang site, officially launching new specialty silicone production lines. These advanced facilities will progressively begin operation in the coming months, supplying silicone oils, emulsions, and elastomer gels to meet the surging demand in the Chinese market.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Dr. Christian Kirsten, WACKER Executive Board Member, emphasized the company’s unwavering commitment to its “In China, for China” strategy, stating, “Even amid economic uncertainty, our Zhangjiagang expansion shows our long-term vision.” WACKER has operated in China for over three decades, and Asia now accounts for 37% of its global sales—half of which comes from China.

The new facilities will produce high-purity functional and non-functional silicones, with some lines GMP-compliant, enabling use in cosmetics and personal care applications. Additionally, elastomer gel production represents a significant leap forward, addressing the fast-growing demand from local beauty and skincare manufacturers.

WACKER China President Wu Wen Tao described the expansion as a strategic future investment, calling it the largest capital input in Zhangjiagang since its establishment. “This is about more than just adding capacity,” he said. “It’s about enabling innovation, reacting quickly to customer needs, and staying ahead of market trends in China.”

This expansion further reinforces WACKER’s position as a market leader in silicone technologies, solidifying its base in one of the world’s most dynamic personal care and specialty chemical markets.