FRENCH specialty chemical company Rhodia SA will open its new research and development facility in Shanghai this summer, reinforcing the Shanghai laboratory's position as one of the five major global R&D centers.
Upon opening, the new research center will employ 150 scientists, said Pascal Metivier, vice president and R&D director of Rhodia Asia Pacific, at a foundation laying event for the new facility in Minhang District yesterday.
The new project will focus on innovating for sustainable development and supporting the fast growth of its industrial operations with the expertise in chemical engineering and process improvement. It will also help realize Rhodia's target to double China sales in five years - a goal revealed by chairman and CEO Jean-Pierre Clamadieu in November.