The vitality of the Kotka-Hamina region takes another big leap forward. Kemira and IFF are investing a total of €130 million in a new bio-based materials production plant in Kotka. For us, this is a strong indication that the Power Coast is attracting top international companies – and that this is where the future of the bioeconomy is being built.

The investment will create a new joint venture, half-owned by both companies. The plant will be located next to IFF’s existing biorefinery and will use existing infrastructure. Production is expected to start in late 2027.

The plant will process plant-based sugars produced in Europe into renewable polymers and other bio-based products. These can be used in applications such as paper and board packaging, coatings and water treatment solutions – as high-performance alternatives to fossil materials. Production capacity is an impressive 44 000 tonnes per year.

This investment will create around 30 new jobs in Kotka and will also provide significant employment during the construction phase. These are concrete actions to increase vitality – exactly what we at Cursor want to help make possible.

Cursor Senior Advisor Jukka Tani comments on the investment:

“This investment is an excellent example of how the growth of the bioeconomy is taking shape right here in the Kotka-Hamina region. Our region offers a combination of industrial infrastructure, logistical location and skilled workforce – and now we see that these strengths are also attracting world-class players.”

Kemira and IFF have been working together strategically since 2020, and the new joint venture will be based on the DEB™ technology developed by IFF, for which Kemira has global exclusivity for commercialisation in selected markets. This collaboration is now tangible in Kotka – and continues Power Coast’s story of leading the way to sustainable growth.

At Cursor, we will continue to work hard to ensure that the Kotka-Hamina region remains an attractive place to locate, grow and renew. This project is strong proof that with the right partnerships, strong expertise and long-term development work, we can build the future – right here on the Power Coast.

Photo: City of Kotka