Synthetic rubber expert targets global leadership

Innovation has been ingrained in Taiwan Synthetic Rubber Corporation (TSRC) since its inception as Taiwan's first manufacturer of synthetic rubber. Equipped with more than 30 years' experience and technological expertise, TSRC is set to strengthen its industry leadership as it expands globally.

Established in 1973 amid Taiwan's developing petrochemical industry, TSRC evolved into Asia's top rubber supplier. Starting with styrene butadiene rubber, the company's products expanded to butadiene rubber, thermoplastic elastomer and value-added applied polymers, which are produced in TSRC's ISO 9001 and 14001-certified plant in Kaohsiung.

In response to a growing demand from the Asia-Pacific, TSRC built additional production bases in Jiangsu, Shanghai, Shandong and Thailand. It made a name in the synthetic rubber tyre industry, initially catering to local customers and eventually supplying global brands such as Bridgestone, Michelin and Goodyear.

TSRC's technologies also progressed significantly over the decades. The company acquired United States-based polymer specialist Dexco in April last year to strengthen its research and development capabilities, particularly in applied materials. Apart from boosting TSRC's expertise, the acquisition is expected to raise TSRC's competitiveness in the global marketplace, especially in North America and Europe.

"We believe that applied materials will become a significant part of TSRC's future business development," says president and CEO Tu Wei-hua. "We are also continuing to enhance our traditional commodity business and looking for ways to provide more cost-effective products."

This expansion has prompted the company to make environmental consciousness a crucial part of its corporate social responsibility. This encompasses TSRC's development of eco-friendly tyres and investment in production processes that will reduce its carbon emissions. TSRC welcomes other partnership opportunities that can contribute to its technology base, and is open to joint ventures with companies looking for a reliable partner in China.