Reinforcement of Production Facilities for Feed grade Lysine in Thailand

Aiming to become a global corporation in food and amino acid products from its origins in Japan, Ajinomoto Co., Inc. is developing its businesses globally. One such business is feed-use amino acids, in which Ajinomoto is a leading global company, with six production bases worldwide. To ensure stable supply in the markets of Asia and Oceania, where future expansion of demand is expected, Ajinomoto Co., (Thailand) Ltd. (Head office: Bangkok, Factory: Pathum Thani) will reinforce its production facilities for feed grade lysine, increasing annual production capacity from the current 30,000 tons to 50,000 tons. Capital expenditures are expected to total 1.3 billion baht (approximately ¥3.5 billion, at an exchange rate of 1 baht = ¥2.7), with construction scheduled for completion in early 2003. Feed grade lysine is a core product of the feed-use amino acid business, and Ajinomoto to hold  a share of about 35% of the approximately 550,000 ton global market. With 7 to 8 percent annual growth expected, the market is forecasted to increase to about 800,000 tons by 2005, making it an attractive market. Ajinomoto has six global production and sales bases in France, Italy, the United States, Thailand, China and Brazil. By taking advantage of the global network of the AJINOMOTO ANIMAL NUTRITION group, the Company will provide a stable supply of high-quality feed-use amino acids and offer customer services tailored to each region.