Constantia Flexibles Group is investing in new technology at its flexible packaging subsidiary in Vietnam to expand its product portfolio. Ho Chi Minh City-based Oai Hung Manufacturing Joint Stock Co. will install a new printing machine and a laminator that represent a single-digit million euro investment.

The wide printing machine will have reverse printing capabilities and the duplex solvent-based adhesive laminator, which will be located in a clean room facility, is able to produce high-adhesion structures required for premium sachet and pouch laminates. The new technology is expected to go on stream during the second half of 2018.

“We are very happy with the integration of Oai Hung into our global network and the investment will open up new business opportunities in the buoyant Vietnamese and fast-growing Southeast Asia region,” said Pierre-Henri Bruchon, executive vice president and head of the pharma division, Constantia Flexibles. “The new technology will allow Oai Hung to diversify its leading foil-based pharmaceutical portfolio based on GMP standards.”

Constantia Flexibles’ Pharma division is the world’s second largest flexible packaging manufacturer for the pharmaceutical and home and personal care (HPC) industries. It operates production sites in Austria, Germany, Italy, Spain, the UK, Belgium and Vietnam. In 2016, Constantia Flexibles acquired 51% of Oai Hung, which is Vietnam’s largest supplier of aluminum-based blister foil.