Huntsman Corp. recently announced a plan to reduce its titanium dioxide (TiO₂) capacity by approximately 100 kt, representing 13% of the company’s European TiO₂ capacity. The plan is expected to generate approximately $35 million in annual savings. 

Huntsman reportedly proposes to close specific operations at its Calais, France, site. The company plans to close the “black end” manufacturing operations and ancillary activities during this year. (The “black end” is responsible for the start of the titanium dioxide manufacturing process. The “white end” is used to finish and pack TiO₂ and will remain operational, employing up to 100 people on the site.)

“With the recent deterioration in industry conditions, we have reviewed our manufacturing network in terms of cost and potential,” said Peter R. Huntsman, president and CEO. “We are confident that by rationalizing our capacity we can continue to meet our customers’ needs and improve our competitiveness as we create a market-leading Pigments and Additives business.”

For more information, visit www.huntsman.com.