Kemira, IFF move their biobased chemicals JV to IFF’s Hanko site

In Finland, specialty chemical companies Kemira and IFF have changed the location of their previously announced Alpha Bio biobased chemicals manufacturing joint venture from IFF’s Kotka site to IFF’s Hanko complex. 

The joint venture, originally announced in 2025, represents an estimated total investment of approximately €130 million (USD$148.5 million). Both companies will continue to hold a 50% stake, and commercial production is now expected to begin in 2029. The original estimate for the commercial production start was late 2027.

Both Kotka and Hanko are South Finland. The Hanko site produces industrial enzymes for the home and personal care, and food and beverage sectors.

The joint venture will continue to leverage IFF’s proprietary Designed Enzymatic Biomaterial™ technology platform, which uses plant‑based sugars to produce high‑performance biobased materials for a wide range of industrial applications. Kemira retains global exclusivity for commercialization of DEB solutions in the paper, board, and water treatment markets.

Tags: Finland, IFF, Kemira

Category: Chemicals & Materials