NatureWorks opens new PLA production plant in Thailand

NatureWorks opened its new, fully integrated production facility for “Ingeo” biopolymers at the Nakhon Sawan BioComplex in Thailand on April 29, 2026. The site combines the production of lactic acid from locally sourced sugarcane, lactide production, and polymerisation into PLA within a single plant complex.

The new facility has an annual capacity of around 75,000 tonnes of “Ingeo” biopolymer and is designed to produce the full “Ingeo” grade portfolio. With this, NatureWorks is expanding its production base with a second site and aims to strengthen the global supply of PLA for applications in packaging, fibres, consumer goods, foodservice products, nonwovens, and 3D printing materials.

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According to the company, the biopolymer produced at the site is based on carbon from annually renewable raw materials. Production is designed to achieve a climate-neutral to net-negative profile at polymer level, supported by life cycle assessments.

With this investment, NatureWorks also aims to strengthen regional supply chains. The site is expected to create skilled jobs and support local agricultural value creation through the use of sugarcane as a raw material. The facility also strengthens the company’s presence in the Asia-Pacific region.

NatureWorks is a supplier of biopolymers and bio-based chemicals made from renewable raw materials. The company is a joint venture between PTT Global Chemical and Cargill.

More information: www.natureworksllc.com

NatureWorks, Nakhon Sawan, Thailand