Apr. 23, 2008 (China Knowledge) - Rhodia, a world leader specializing in chemical products, yesterday launched its global R&D center project in Shanghai's Xinzhuang Industrial Zone, which will target Asian market, in the fields of automotive, electronics, home, personal care, oilfield and agricultural formulation.

With an investment of EUR 6.5 million, the center comprises 3,000 sq. m of additional laboratories. Shanghai is set as one of the French-based chemical firm's five major R&D centers, and the other four centers are located in France, Brazil and the U.S. (with two centers).

The new R&D facility is set to serve the 18 operations in Asia, among which 13 was in China, according to Jean-Pierre Clamadieu, the chairman and CEO of Rhodia. And it will help the company shape its future in the region.

Rhodia's sales revenue in Asia amounted to EUR 1 billion last year, and the company targets to double the figure within five years.