UPM appoints Dongsung Chemical for bio-based MEG distribution in Korea 

UPM has chosen Dongsung Chemical as the exclusive distributor for its new bio-based Monoethylene Glycol (BioMEG) product, UPM BioPura™, in Korea. This decision strengthens the ongoing collaboration between the two companies and advances sustainability in the Korean chemical industry. The partnership provides UPM with access to the substantial Korean MEG market and complements UPM Biochemicals' existing partnerships in the automotive, fashion, and packaging industries, promoting the transition from fossil-based to renewable materials.

Michael Duetsch, Vice President of Biochemicals at UPM, stated: "Expanding the partnership with Dongsung Chemical is another major milestone in bringing our renewable chemicals to market and in establishing an entirely new category of high value sustainable chemicals. We will continue to collaborate in the development of alternative solutions for a large variety of customer segments in the Asian shoe and textile markets."

ManWoo Lee, CEO of Dongsung Chemical, emphasised: "Our partnership with UPM enables us to supply wood-derived biomass raw materials in Korea. We are committed to reducing carbon emissions and enhancing ESG management by assisting partners in developing environmentally friendly products using UPM’s bio-monoethylene glycol."

UPM's €1,180 million investment in the world's first large-scale biorefinery in Leuna, Germany, will convert sustainably sourced hardwood into next-generation biochemicals, supporting the transition from fossil-based to renewable materials across various industries. UPM's BioMEG BioPura™ is derived from sustainably sourced hardwood from the Leuna region in Germany, ensuring a climate-neutral product from day one. Additional reduction measures will further enhance its sustainability.