Kuraray Marks 100 Years as a Specialty Chemicals Company

Kuraray Co., Ltd. marked its 100th anniversary on June 24, 2026, with a commemorative ceremony for employees held at the Tokyo International Forum and streamed to company locations in Japan and internationally.

Founded in 1926 in Kurashiki, Okayama Prefecture, Japan, Kuraray began with the commercialization of synthetic rayon. Over the past century, the company has expanded into a global specialty chemicals business with operations in 32 countries and regions.

Kuraray’s portfolio has grown through the development of technologies including PVA fiber, PVOH resin, CLARINO™ man-made leather, and EVAL™ EVOH resin. The company stated that its growth has been guided by a focus on developing technologies and materials intended to address needs across a range of markets.

During the anniversary ceremony, company leadership thanked employees, customers, partners, and other stakeholders who have supported Kuraray throughout its history.

Hitoshi Kawahara, President of Kuraray, emphasized the importance of sharing values across countries, regions, languages, and cultures. He also outlined the company’s intention to advance its “One Kuraray” approach by connecting people, technologies, and knowledge across business and organizational boundaries.

According to the company, the centennial represents both a recognition of Kuraray’s history and a renewed commitment to pursuing new challenges over the next 100 years.

Source: Kuraray Co., Ltd.