Chemical companies are evolving. As new markets emerge and low-cost producers rise amid tightening constraints on raw materials, companies are reshaping their business to rise above the industry's challenges. Quimica Anastacio meets the chemical industry's demands by shifting its 72-year-old chemical production business to distribution. "We look at our partners and customers and tap the potential," says Jan Krueder, CEO of Quimica Anastacio. "Customers who used to get one product from us now get more than 25 products from our line." Consumer care, industrial and food and feeds manufacturers make up Quimica Anastacio's markets. With 6,000 customers all over Brazil and in other Latin American countries, the company manages 300 containers of products from 30 countries each month. "We import for the customer. It is not an easy process, but we are known for our speed and accuracy in this area," Krueder says. Large multinational corporations choose Quimica Anastacio for its comprehensive product line, competitive pricing, broad distribution channel and tailor-made technical support. Aside from efficiently managing importation and delivery processes, the company organises laboratory product application tests for key customers who are introducing a product to the market for the first time. This scheme ensures product quality and controls clients' inventory costs. "Quality is our business," Krueder says. We make sure the product we deliver is exactly as the customer requested." Quimica Anastacio imports 30 per cent of its products from Asia and seeks to increase its import volume in the next five years to become Brazil's largest distributor by 2017. The company is expanding its portfolio to include suppliers from the region who meet its quality and international licence requirements. "It's rewarding to work with partners in Asia," Krueder says. "They are fast, flexible and they like good business. Quality is improving. We're happy and we intend to expand our business in the region." Química Anastácio www.quimicaanastacio.com.br