May 29, 2025 – A groundbreaking advancement has emerged in Europe’s bioplastics sector as Belgium-based Futerro partners with Yinhe Group to establish an integrated production hub in Normandy, France, dedicated to bioplastics manufacturing and high-value chemical development.
The ambitious project, valued at €500 million, aims to create a comprehensive supply chain from agricultural feedstocks to finished products. The facility is set to produce 75,000 tons annually of polylactic acid (PLA) bioplastics, complemented by a waste recycling center to foster a circular economy. Notably, the project will exclusively source wheat grown locally in France, with Tereos, an agricultural cooperative, ensuring a steady biomass supply.
A standout feature of this collaboration, as per Color Masterbatch Industry Network, is Yinhe Group’s plan to leverage its proprietary technology to convert a portion of the lactic acid feedstock into high-value biobased derivatives. These products, applicable in food preservation, green solvents, and notably as natural antimicrobial agents already widely adopted in Europe’s food industry, are expected to significantly enhance Europe’s indigenous innovation capabilities in biobased materials, according to Yinhe Group’s CEO.
Another innovation lies in the project’s diversified product lineup. Beyond traditional PLA bioplastics, the site will manufacture a range of high-value chemicals, including food preservatives and eco-friendly solvents. This holistic value-chain approach signifies a transition in Europe’s biomaterials industry from single-product manufacturing to an integrated green chemistry system.
Industry experts highlight the project’s integration of agricultural resources, bioplastics production, and chemical development as a model circular economy demonstration. Its successful execution is poised to play a pivotal role in Europe’s pursuit of carbon neutrality and offers a replicable business model for the global biobased materials sector. As the project progresses, it is anticipated to spur the formation of a new bio-economy industrial cluster in Normandy, France.