Dahej: British specialty chemicals company Croda International Plc has inaugurated a new greenfield manufacturing facility in Dahej of Bharuch. The £55 million (around ₹691 crore) facility is now the largest UK investment in India’s chemical sector, according to Harjinder Kang, UK Trade Commissioner for South Asia.

Located in Dahej industrial region, the facility benefits from strong logistics connectivity and has been designed to serve both domestic customers and selected export markets. The plant will support demand across Croda’s Consumer Care, Life Sciences and Industrial Specialties businesses.

Built around the theme ‘Built Green. Built Smart. Built for the Future’, the Dahej site has sustainability embedded from the outset. It has been designed to significantly reduce Scope 1 and 2 emissions, enabled by renewable electricity and fuel sources. Additional features include Zero Liquid Discharge systems that are expected to become operational later in the year, the use of RSPO-certified oleochemicals and alignment with Extended Producer Responsibility plastic recycling requirements, the company said in press release.

According to the company, the site has been developed with advanced operating systems, robust quality infrastructure and high safety standards to ensure reliable and efficient manufacturing. During construction, the project recorded over five million safe working hours, reflecting Croda’s “Safety First Always” culture.

The facility also supports the company’s inclusion goals, with 100% women-led packaging operations and a target of achieving 30% female representation at the site.

Steve Foots, Group Chief Executive said: “This investment in Dahej is a clear demonstration of Croda’s commitment to the Indian market. The site combines strong sustainability credentials with high safety and operational standards, positioning us to better serve customers in India and beyond. We see significant long-term growth potential in the region and this facility provides a strong platform to support that ambition.”  DeshGujarat