US-based International Flavors & Fragrances (IFF) has opened a new flavor production facility in Guangzhou, China, as part of a plan to strengthen its presence in emerging markets.
The move is part of a previously announced $100m investment in Greater Asia.
The new facility, located in the Guangzhou Economic and Technological Development District, will cater to the company's regional and global food and beverage customers.
Spanning over an area of 19,000m2, the facility houses sales and administration offices, laboratories, factory buildings, and support services. It will manufacture all types of product currently manufactured by the company in China, as well as spray dry.
IFF expects the commercial production to begin in Q3 2013.
IFF chairman and CEO Doug Tough said the company continues to have confidence in its growth strategies in the region and a strong commitment to the emerging markets.
"With the opening of our Singapore and Delhi facilities in 2012 and our Guangzhou site in 2013, IFF is well-positioned to support our customers' growth now and into the future, both regionally and globally," Tough added.
IFF Flavors president Hernan Vaisman said the plant will create flavors that meet the highest global standards in quality and, while doing so, the company is utilizing green design in its facilities to minimize its environmental footprint.
Over the next few months, the facility will undergo rigorous testing and production trials to ensure all its products meet the highest global standards, IFF stated.
