BASF and Hannong Chemical Joint Venture Nonionic Surfactant Plant Begins Operation in South Korea

BASF Hannong Chemicals Solutions (BHCS), a joint venture established by BASF and Hannong Chemicals, has announced the official start of operations at its nonionic surfactant production base in the Daesan Industrial Complex, Seosan City, South Korea.

The facility spans approximately 12,000 square meters, with trial production having commenced in January 2026. Equipped with swing tank units, the plant enhances production flexibility and improves supply stability.

BHCS is 51% owned by BASF and 49% by Hannong Chemicals. The new facility combines BASF’s expertise in surfactant technology and product innovation with Hannong Chemicals’ efficient manufacturing capabilities, delivering high-quality nonionic surfactants to the Asian market. In the future, the site will also expand into the production of specialty surfactants, further strengthening BASF’s global production network.

These nonionic surfactants are used across various industries, including chemicals, agriculture, cosmetics and personal care, as well as polymer and polyurethane foam stabilization.

Daniel Wussow, President of BASF’s Care Chemicals division, stated that the completion of this production base will help strengthen the company’s global nonionic surfactant network and enhance its responsiveness to regional customers.

Kim Eung Sang, CEO of Hannong Chemicals, emphasized that the new plant not only enhances the synergy between the two companies’ technology and manufacturing capabilities but also further boosts the competitiveness of the joint venture in the market.