German specialty chemicals company WACKER has expanded its silicone production capacity in India. The company has commissioned a new production complex for silicone emulsions at its Panagarh site in West Bengal.

The facility will manufacture GMP-certified silicone emulsions for the cosmetics and personal care industry. In addition, it will significantly increase WACKER’s production capacity in India and create around 60 new jobs.

Strengthening Silicone Supply for Beauty Applications

The new complex spans 15,000 square meters. It produces high-purity silicone emulsions that meet the Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards set by the European Federation for Cosmetic Ingredients (EFfCI).

These silicones are widely used in skincare, haircare, and personal care products. They help improve texture, spreadability, conditioning, and sensory performance. Therefore, demand for such ingredients continues to grow across global beauty markets.

According to Dr. Christian Kirsten, Member of the Executive Board at WACKER, the Panagarh facility will deliver world-class, high-quality products tailored to industry needs.

India as a Strategic Growth Market

For WACKER, the personal care sector is a key growth pillar in India. Its joint venture, Wacker Metroark Chemicals (WMC), supplies silicone raw materials for shampoos, cosmetics, and other personal care applications.

The company serves both domestic manufacturers and global consumer goods brands. As demand rises, WACKER expects strong growth in the Indian market.

Thomas Koini, Head of WACKER’s Silicones division, noted that expanding production in Panagarh will help meet increasing demand and support customer growth.

Expanding Regional Supply Chain Capabilities

With this expansion, Panagarh becomes a major production hub for silicone emulsions in India. It complements WACKER’s existing site in Amtala, which has traditionally focused on silicone fluids and emulsions.

Going forward, Amtala will increasingly focus on product and process development. Meanwhile, Panagarh will take on a larger role in manufacturing and supply.

Dr. Sascha Buechel, Managing Director of Wacker Metroark, highlighted that the new site offers greater space and flexibility. This will allow the company to scale operations and strengthen its position in the regional silicones supply chain.