Asahi Kasei Expanding Capacity to Manufacture System Components for Clean Hydrogen

TOKYO — Asahi Kasei has announced the official approval of new facilities at its Kawasaki Works to manufacture electrolysis system components for both alkaline water electrolysis and chlor-alkali electrolysis. Alkaline water electrolysis systems in particular are expected to enjoy significant demand growth as production of clean hydrogen becomes widespread. Through strategic allocation of resources for expansion, the company expects that hydrogen-related business will become a growing part of its Material sector over the coming years.

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The new facilities will manufacture electrolysis cell frames and membranes to support two strategic business areas: alkaline water electrolysis systems used in the production of clean hydrogen, and ion-exchange membrane chlor-alkali electrolysis to produce chlorine and caustic soda. This investment strengthens vertical integration across key materials for hydrogen and chlor-alkali markets, enhancing stable supply to meet future market growth.

Initiated on December 18, 2024, the project has been selected for financial support under the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI)’s “GX Supply Chain Development Program.” The new facilities enable the company to increase production and deliver cutting-edge solutions to the hydrogen, chlorine, and caustic soda markets.

Under its medium-term management plan, Asahi Kasei has positioned its alkaline water electrolysis and chlor-alkali electrolysis business under the “Growth Potential” category, viewing it as a key driver of future growth. This is part of a broader initiative to refine the Material sector through investment in revenue drivers and advancing business portfolio transformation.

In May 2025, Asahi Kasei announced the discontinuation of its MMA, CHMA, PMMA resin, and SB latex businesses, located at the Kawasaki Works. The company has stated that Kawasaki Works will be a key site for managing its “Energy & Infrastructure” businesses going forward.

“These new facilities integrate our long-standing expertise in chlor-alkali electrolysis with our growing capabilities in alkaline water electrolysis, enabling us to respond robustly and flexibly to both the clean hydrogen and basic chemical markets,” said Kenji Takeda, Executive Officer of Asahi Kasei for Ion-Exchange Membranes, Microza & Water Processing, and Green Solution Project Business Development. “We will continue to maximize efficiencies between these key businesses, striving to become a core player in the GX supply chain through stable supply, technological innovation, and long-term strategic growth.”

To learn more, visit chlor-alkali.asahi-kasei.co.jp/en.

About Asahi Kasei

The Asahi Kasei Group contributes to life and living for people around the world. Since its foundation in 1922 with ammonia and cellulose fiber businesses, Asahi Kasei has consistently grown through the proactive transformation of its business portfolio to meet the evolving needs of every age. With more than 50,000 employees worldwide, the company contributes to a sustainable society by providing solutions to the world's challenges through its three business sectors of Healthcare, Homes, and Material. For more information, visit www.asahi-kasei.com.

Asahi Kasei is also dedicated to sustainability initiatives and is contributing to reaching a carbon neutral society by 2050. To learn more, visit www.asahi-kasei.com/sustainability.