Asahi Kasei Strengthens Long-Term Profitability by Phasing Out HMD Production
as Part of Structural Reform
TOKYO – December 5, 2025 – Asahi Kasei will discontinue production of hexamethylene
diamine (HMD) as part of its ongoing portfolio optimization, aiming to enhance capital
efficiency and strengthen the company’s earnings profile. HMD and its by-product,
propionitrile, are used in materials such as polyamide 66 (PA66), hexamethylene
diisocyanate (HDI), and resin hardening agents. Based on an assessment of market
dynamics, competitiveness, and future capital requirements, Asahi Kasei has decided to
exit HMD production. The phase-out will be completed by April 2027.
This discontinuation will not affect the production of Asahi Kasei’s PA66 resin and filament in Nobeoka, nor the production of HDI and its derivatives in Hyuga—both located in Miyazaki Prefecture. All affected employees will be reassigned to other roles within the company. The impact on Asahi Kasei’s consolidated performance forecast is expected to be immaterial.
Business Portfolio Transformation
Under its three-year medium-term management plan “Trailblaze Together”, Asahi Kasei is improving capital efficiency and accelerating earnings by converting past growth investments into tangible returns. To support this, the company is implementing structural reforms that channel resources to its key growth pillars—pharmaceuticals, critical care, overseas homes, and electronics.
Recent actions such as the divestiture of Daramic, a lead battery separator manufacturer, exiting methyl methacrylate (MMA) monomer and related businesses, and expanding capacity for Pimel photosensitive polyimide, demonstrate Asahi Kasei’s disciplined execution of this strategy and reinforce the foundation for sustained, profitable growth.
About Asahi Kasei
The Asahi Kasei Group contributes to life and living for people around the world. Since its foundation in 1922 with ammonia and cellulose fiber business, Asahi Kasei has consistently grown through the proactive transformation of its business portfolio to meet the evolving needs of every age. With more than 50,000 employees worldwide, the company contributes to sustainable society by providing solutions to the world’s challenges through its three business sectors of Healthcare, Homes, and Material.
For more information, visit www.asahi-kasei.com.
Asahi Kasei Europe Contact:
Asahi Kasei Europe GmbH
Sebastian Schmidt
sebastian.schmidt@asahi-kasei.eu
Asahi Kasei America Inc.
Christian OKeefe
christian.okeefe@ak-america.com