Netherlands

The Dutch and the Japanese have enjoyed a profitable and enduring relationship for hundreds of years. As we enter the 21st century, the recent activities of one Japanese company are evidence that the two nations remain closely tied and often work together to build successful businesses.

Osaka-based Teijin, one of the world's leading manufacturers of synthetic fibers, acquired the Dutch company Twaron Products in 2000 to further increase the Japanese company's global presence.

"From our earliest negotiations, Teijin believed the acquisition of Twaron was an excellent opportunity, as the company has a great future," recounts Yosh Karasawa, president and CEO of Teijin Twaron in Holland.

Twaron had made its name for itself through its development of the eponymous Twaron material -- made from para-aramid polymer. The high performance synthetic fiber has become highly valued, with applications in a comprehensive array of products including protective clothing, ballistics, optical fiber cables, hoses, composites and mechanical rubber goods.
Yosh Karasawa, president and CEO of Teijin Twaron

"Our product is chemical resistant, fireproof, lightweight and strong," says Karasawa, " and it can easily be combined with other materials to serve new applications." For example, aramid has become the favoured reinforcing material in high performance tires due to its strength and superior performance-to-weight ratio.

"We can modify our product to meet the demands of the customer," adds Karasawa, betraying a Japanese attention to quality client service. "Specific items are frequently required and we have the knowledge to provide customers with products which outperform even their exacting specifications."

In offering tailor-made solutions and working closely with its customers, Teijin Twaron is seeing its market share increase and this in turn has led to the expansion of operations in the Netherlands.

As Kawamura explains: "We already supply to more than 1,000 customers. However the market is increasing by 7-10 percent each year. We intend to meet this growing demand by expanding our operations by approximately 50 percent in 2003."

It is a huge challenge to say the least, but one that Karasawa feels can be attained through the knowledge and skills of the Dutch-based workforce.

"We are very pleased with the people here," he says. "We have a highly qualified workforce with exceptional performance capabilities. Their knowledge of marketing and research development is essential for Teijin Twaron."

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