Chemical

BASF-Hannong JV launches surfactant plant in Korea

The new facility is operated by BHCS, in which BASF holds a 51% stake and Hannong Chemicals 49%

  • By ICN Bureau | March 21, 2026
BASF Hannong Chemicals Solutions (BHCS), the joint venture between BASF and Hannong Chemicals, has officially inaugurated its new non-ionic surfactant (NIS) production site at the Daesan Industrial Complex in Seosan, Chungcheongnam-do.
 
The ceremony drew top officials and executives, including Tae-heum Kim, Governor of Chungcheongnam-do; Wan-seop Lee, Mayor of Seosan; Daniel Wussow, President of Care Chemicals, BASF (effective April 1, 2026); Woo Suk Lee, Managing Director of BASF Korea; Eung-sang Kim, CEO of Hannong Chemicals; and Sang-ho Kyung, President of Hannong Chemicals.
 
Spanning approximately 12,234 m², the new facility is operated by BHCS, in which BASF holds a 51% stake and Hannong Chemicals 49%. Trial operations began in January 2026. The plant features a swing tank to boost production flexibility and ensure supply reliability, thanks to support from Chungcheongnam-do Province and the City of Seosan.
 
The site merges BASF’s advanced technology and product innovation with Hannong Chemicals’ efficient manufacturing capabilities, enabling a reliable supply of high-quality non-ionic surfactants across Asia. Future expansions will include specialty surfactants, further strengthening BASF’s global production network.
 
These non-ionic surfactants serve diverse industries, from chemicals and agriculture to cosmetics, personal care, and polymer and polyurethane foam stabilization.
 
“Through its collaboration with Hannong Chemicals, BASF will enhance its ability to serve customers locally in a fast growing region. This plant will strengthen BASF’s global production network for non-ionic surfactants and serve as a foundation for responding to customer demand across various industries,” said Daniel Wussow.
 
Kim Eung Sang added: “It is very meaningful for us to complete this production base that combines world-class technology and manufacturing capabilities through our cooperation with BASF. With this new site, we will further strengthen our competitiveness in the non-ionic surfactants market and provide higher-quality products and solutions to customers.”

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