Avantium partners with Sojitz Pla-Net to sell PEF in Japan

Avantium has signed a partnership with Japanese plastics trader Sojitz Pla-Net Corporation to promote its plant-based PEF polymer, branded releaf, to Japan's FMCG and packaging sector. The deal, announced 8 September 2026, pairs Avantium's bio-based polymer technology with Sojitz Pla-Net's domestic distribution network. The two companies will co-exhibit at the Sustainable Material Expo in Chiba from 30 September to 2 October 2026.

Why this mattersA local distribution partner lowers the entry barrier for bio-based PEF in Japan, a market central to Asia-Pacific PET-substitution policy.

• Avantium and Sojitz Pla-Net Corporation announced the partnership on 8 September 2026
• Deal covers commercialisation of Avantium's plant-based FDCA and PEF polymer, branded releaf, in Japan
• Sojitz Pla-Net will use its plastics distribution network to reach Japanese FMCG and packaging manufacturers
• PEF is cited as offering roughly 6 times better oxygen barrier and 3 times better water vapour barrier than PET
• The companies will co-exhibit at the Sustainable Material Expo (SUSMA) 2026 in Chiba, Japan, from 30 September to 2 October 2026
• Japan's Plastic Resource Circulation Strategy, set in 2020, targets expanded use of bioplastics

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