Completion of a new assembly plant for Planova^TM virus removal filters

Asahi Kasei Medical has completed construction of a new plant for assembly of Planova^TM virus removal filters in Oita, Japan. With capacity of 40,000m²/year, the new plant doubles total production capacity for Planova^TM filters to 80,000 m²/year.

Planova^TM virus removal filters are used to enhance safety in the production process for biotherapeutic products such as biopharmaceuticals and plasma derivatives. The outstanding performance of Planova^TM filters-combining high rates of virus clearance with high rates of protein recovery-has been widely recognized throughout the world, and over 90% of Planova^TM sales are to customers in Europe and the US. Demand for Planova^TM products is poised for steady growth, with production of biopharmaceuticals forecasted to grow at over 10% per year until 2015.

The newly completed plant complements Asahi Kasei Medical’s plants in Nobeoka, Miyazaki, Japan, for the spinning of hollow-fiber membrane and the assembly of Planova^TM filters. Being located in Oita, one of the main production sites for medical devices and related products of the Asahi Kasei Group, the new plant will serve to reduce location risk in Planova^TM production. This expansion of capacity underscores Asahi Kasei Medical’s commitment as the market leader to maintain stable supply and high product quality in line with growing demand.

Outline of the integration