For more than three decades, Japan’s UBE Group has built a strong presence in Thailand’s petrochemical sector. Today, the company is entering a new chapter — one defined by specialty chemicals, sustainability and regional innovation.
Leading this transformation is Anusara Suthikulavet, president and CEO of UBE Chemicals (Asia) Public Co. Ltd., who oversees the group’s operations across Southeast Asia, India and Oceania. Her leadership also marks a milestone as the first female CEO of UBE’s operations in Thailand, reflecting the evolving leadership landscape within the industry.
“UBE is transforming to a specialty chemical company,” Suthikulavet said. “Our focus is moving toward high-value products that support sustainability and emerging industries.”
UBE’s presence in Thailand dates to 1990, when the company established its first operations in Rayong through a joint venture producing caprolactam, a key raw material for nylon. Over the years, the group expanded its footprint with several companies, including Thai Synthetic Rubbers Co. Ltd., UBE Fine Chemicals (Asia) Co. Ltd., UBE Technical Center (Asia) Ltd. and UBE (Thailand) Co. Ltd.
These businesses collectively produce a range of industrial materials, from nylon engineering plastics and synthetic rubber to fine chemicals used in advanced coatings. They are also responsible for expanding sales of gas separation membranes.
Thailand remains a critical hub for UBE’s regional strategy. The country serves as a base for production, research and distribution across Southeast Asia, India and Oceania, supporting industries ranging from automotive and electronics to consumer goods.
However, changing global market conditions, particularly the rapid expansion of commodity chemical production in China, have pushed the company to reposition itself. UBE is now reducing some commodity output while expanding its portfolio of specialty materials.
“UBE is transforming to a specialty chemical company. Our focus is moving toward high-value products that support sustainability and emerging industries.”
Anusara Suthikulavet, President and CEO of UBE Chemicals (Asia) Public Co. Ltd.
A key part of that strategy centers on green and sustainable products, including recycled materials, bio-based coatings and advanced membrane technologies that support carbon capture and clean energy applications.
One example is UBE’s collaboration with Thai fashion brand Pipatchara, which transforms discarded fishing nets, many made from nylon, into innovative clothing and other products. The initiative highlights how industrial materials can be reimagined through circular design while helping reduce marine waste.
The company is also investing heavily in research and innovation in Thailand, working with universities and operating an advanced technical center that develops new materials and processing technologies. Several patents have already emerged from the Thai research team.
Beyond technology, Suthikulavet emphasizes people as the company’s greatest strength. UBE’s regional operations see that most roles are held by local professionals.
“Our people are the key to this transformation,” she said. “When they understand the direction and the purpose, they are ready to move forward together.”
