Oerlikon Barmag Huitong Engineering (OBHE) has entered into a strategic cooperation agreement with Köksan Group, a leading PET producer in Türkiye, for the development of a Continuous Polycondensation (CP) production facility with a capacity of 400,000 tons per year. This investment marks a significant step in Köksan Group’s global expansion strategy.
Under this agreement, Köksan will invest a substantial amount in the high triple-digit million Chinese Yuan range over the coming years. The new plant will be located in Yangkou Chemical Industrial Park, Rudong County, Nantong, China, and will focus on producing 2.2 million tons per year of green polyester materials for the packaging industry. The first phase of the project has officially commenced, with production expected to begin in mid-2026.
A Milestone for Köksan’s Global Growth
“This investment is a transformative step for our company’s future,” said Murat Kökoğlu, CEO of Köksan. “It is our first venture in China and represents one of the largest industrial investments by a Turkish company in this sector within China. Once fully operational, this project will position Köksan as a major global player in polyester production for the packaging industry.”
Zhong Ming, General Manager of Oerlikon Barmag Huitong Engineering, added, “We are honored that Köksan has selected our innovative CP technology. This collaboration underscores our expertise in polymerization technologies and strengthens our presence in the global market.”
State-of-the-Art CP Technology from Oerlikon Barmag Huitong Engineering
The project will incorporate an advanced five-reactor process along with specialized equipment from OBHE, Oerlikon Barmag’s joint venture partner. Utilizing purified terephthalic acid (PTA) and ethylene glycol (MEG) as raw materials, the facility will produce high-viscosity polyester chips through a direct esterification and continuous polycondensation process. Combined with Köksan’s extensive industry experience, the project aims to deliver premium bottle-grade polyester chips to the market.
Köksan’s International Expansion
As one of Türkiye’s leading companies in the PET and plastic packaging industry, Köksan exports to over 100 countries and continues to expand its international presence. The company operates in China, Senegal, Libya, and Iraq, further establishing itself as a key global investor. With over 50 years of industry expertise, Köksan has developed a diversified business model encompassing chemical production and processing, logistics, warehousing, international trade, and real estate development.
This latest investment reinforces Köksan’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and global leadership in polyester production for the packaging industry.
