Biotech

Asahi Kasei Opens New Plant to Boost Planova Output

Asahi Kasei Life Science will build a new spinning plant in Nobeoka City, Japan. This will boost production of its Planova™ virus removal filters. The facility will start operations in January 2030. It will be the company’s fourth plant for hollow-fiber cellulose membrane filters. With support from Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI), this project boosts supply chain resilience. It also addresses the rising global need for virus filtration in biologics manufacturing. This move shows Asahi Kasei’s bigger plan called “Trailblaze Together.” This plan sees life sciences as a key area for future growth. The expansion happens as the global biopharmaceutical sector thrives. It is expected to top $500 billion by 2032. Virus removal filters, such as Planova, are vital in drug production. They help ensure safety as…