AkzoNobel has completed phase one of the €2.5 million expansion of its performance coatings plant in Cikarang, Indonesia.

The investment will increase capacity at the facility by 40 percent and will help the company meet growing domestic demand – driven by the petrochemical and power sectors – for its International brand marine and protective coatings products.

Speaking at the recent inauguration ceremony, Mauricio Bannwart, Managing Director of AkzoNobel's Protective Coatings business, said: "This investment is a testament to our commitment to Indonesia, which continues to improve its position as an emerging market.

"We have installed state-of -the-art, automated equipment at Cikarang, which will significantly improve product quality, safety and sustainability standards."

Commenting on the expansion, Oscar Wezenbeek, Managing Director of AkzoNobel's Marine Coatings business, said: "We are excited about the fast-growing domestic market opportunity in Indonesia. The country has great maritime potential, with a 54,720 kilometer coastline, inclusive government policy and an opportunity to build a robust shipbuilding industry."