Mitsubishi Chemical Group President Tsukimoto Manabu (筑本 学) expressed interest in acquiring JSR, while also addressing the parent-subsidiary reversal issue involving Nippon Sanso Holdings, an industrial gases company within the group, and the future of petrochemical restructuring. This interview takes a close look at the group's prospects following its structural reforms.
Mitsubishi Chemical Group, Japan's largest chemical company, disclosed its interest in acquiring JSR. In this context, it also addressed the parent-subsidiary reversal issue concerning its relationship with Nippon Sanso Holdings, its industrial gases subsidiary.
The restructuring of its petrochemical business included discussion of the possibility of spinning off and restructuring facilities in the Keiyo and Kashima areas. The interview provided detailed responses on a plan to integrate operations in the Keiyo area and the direction of integration and restructuring for the petrochemical business in the Kashima area.
The group outlined plans to scale up and consolidate its petrochemical facilities by fiscal 2026, shut down ethylene plants, and restructure its business platform. The comments reflected its interest in acquiring JSR, as well as its vision for the business following the restructuring and its efforts to strengthen international competitiveness.
The interview was conducted by the Diamond editorial team and is positioned as an account of Mitsubishi Chemical Group's future direction.