§  New footwear solutions to support zero-carbon emissions target by 2050

§  Partnership with leading companies in their respective industry

Taiwan – December 11, 2025 – BASF, San Fang Chemical Industrial Co., Ltd. (San Fang), and Nichetech Advanced Materials Co., Ltd. (Nichetech) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly develop sustainable solutions for the footwear industry, with a focus on thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) products and a shared ambition to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

The first milestone of this collaboration will be the introduction of Global Recycled Standard (GRS)-certified TPU films, combining high performance with environmental responsibility. The Global Recycled Standard (GRS) is an internationally recognized certification that verifies the use of recycled materials in products. It provides a robust framework for tracking recycled content throughout the entire supply chain, ensuring transparency and integrity.

These films will enable footwear brands to incorporate recycled materials without compromising quality or durability. Building on this foundation, the partners will expand the portfolio with additional GRS-certified products that meet international recycling standards, delivering innovative solutions for brands and consumers worldwide.

The strategic alliance leverages each partner’s expertise. BASF is one of the world’s leading chemical companies and has extensive know-how in sustainable and high-performance materials and applications. Founded in 1973, San Fang develops key raw materials and application technologies and actively promotes environmentally friendly products for a circular economy such as recycled polyester polyols. Nichetech specializes in high-performance flexible films and possesses advanced manufacturing capabilities and a strong footwear market knowledge.

“We are proud to collaborate with BASF and Nichetech to pioneer innovative sustainable solutions for the footwear industry that meet global standards and deliver real value to brands and consumers in Taiwan and beyond,” said Chih Yi, Lin*, President, San Fang.

Leveraging on San Fang’s expertise in recycled polyester polyols, Nichetech brings deep knowledge in TPU film applications and a dedication to driving industry-wide change.

“Our expertise in TPU film applications allows us to set a new benchmark for sustainable materials in the footwear industry,” said Chih Yi, Lin*, President, Nichetech.

BASF complements these strengths with advanced TPU technology and global reach, enabling large-scale adoption of recycled materials.

“We’re excited to team up with San Fang and Nichetech to make sustainability a reality. With our TPU technology and know-how, we’re helping brands bring recycled materials into their products at scale. We are together on our plastics journey and the mission is clear: speed up circular solutions, cut carbon emissions, and set a new benchmark for sustainable performance in the industry,” said Martin Jung, President, Performance Materials, BASF.

Through technological innovation, resource integration, and stringent quality control, the partners will actively promote use of recycled materials across footwear materials and related applications – defining the future of sustainability in the industry.

* Note: Chih Yi, Lin serves a dual role as President of both San Fang and Nichetech, with Nichetech being a wholly owned subsidiary of San Fang.