The world’s fourth largest roll goods producer Fiberweb plc is in the process of building a second airlaid production line at its site at Tianjin, China, adding 10,000 tons of capacity to the 16,000 tons already installed. The investment reinforces Fiberweb’s position as a supplier of airlaid products in Asia, primarily to producers of feminine care products. According to company executives, rapid market growth in both high-end and mid-market segments coupled with Fiberweb’s success in serving customers has created demand for this additional capacity.

The new investment utilizes cost-effective, Chinese-sourced technology and is designed to meet the needs of both local customers as well as those of major multinational consumers. The new capacity is scheduled to come onstream in the first quarter of 2008.

Derek Chan, president of Fiberweb Asia commented, “Using efficient design and Fiberweb’s expertise, we will be able to offer innovative and attractively priced products to strengthen and expand our premier position in Asia. The Asian market is expected to grow 10-15% annually in the coming years and Fiberweb is well positioned to support this growth with new investment.”