Cariflex opens world’s largest polyisoprene latex plant in Singapore

Singapore — Cariflex has officially launched the world’s largest polyisoprene latex production facility, reinforcing its position as a leader in synthetic rubber manufacturing. The plant, located on Jurong Island, marks a significant milestone in the industry, with an investment of $355 million dedicated to advancing medical and protective applications.

The facility began operations in November 2024, doubling Cariflex’s previous manufacturing capacity. Polyisoprene latex is a highly sought-after synthetic rubber, commonly used in surgical gloves, condoms, adhesives, and laminates. Southeast Asia’s demand for these products continues to grow, making Singapore a strategic choice for Cariflex’s expansion.

A subsidiary of South Korea’s DL Chemical, Cariflex strategically selected Singapore for its strong infrastructure, skilled workforce, and intellectual property protections. In addition to enhancing production capabilities, the plant has created 80 new permanent jobs, with the majority being filled by local workers.

Cariflex’s new facility is built for modular expansion, allowing it to scale operations efficiently based on market demand. The company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability is reflected in the plant’s design, which incorporates advanced manufacturing technologies to ensure high-quality and environmentally conscious production.

With this launch, Cariflex strengthens its role as a key player in the global latex market, driving growth in medical and industrial applications while reinforcing Singapore’s position as a hub for cutting-edge manufacturing.