Niagara expands footprint in EV mobility sector

May 14, 2024

Today, the Government of Canada, Province of Ontario, Niagara Region, City of Port Colborne, St. Lawrence Seaway Management and other private sector partners came together to welcome Asahi Kasei to announce a $1.56 billion investment in the lithium-ion battery supply chain in Ontario.

The announcement marks a significant milestone in Niagara region's economic development as Asahi Kasei’s new wet-process separator manufacturing facility will undoubtedly shape Niagara’s local economy for years to come. In addition, this investment represents the culmination of collaboration and partnership between the federal, provincial and municipal governments at both the region and city. 

Located along Highway 140, south of Highway 58A (formerly known as the Nyon Lands) in Port Colborne, the new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility represents the largest investment in Niagara to date. The decision to invest in Port Colborne highlights Niagara’s attractiveness as a place to do business and reaffirms Niagara’s position as a hub for innovation and forward-thinking industries.

Asahi Kasei was founded in 1922 with their global headquarters located in Tokyo, Japan. The company employs nearly 50,000 people worldwide, with 14,000 in the United States. Asahi Kasei makes products and technologies that are used in everyday life, which range from Saran Wrap cling film to performance materials for automotive parts and interiors.

Quotes:

“Today's announcement in Port Colborne marks a transformative moment for not just the city, but the entire Niagara region. This investment underscores the importance of collaboration among all levels of government and industry partners. When Niagara works as a team, we can be justifiably proud of the sustainable and innovative outcomes that we achieve together. This investment will drive economic growth and environmental stewardship for generations to come, acting as a catalyst for future prosperity across the region.”
- Jim Bradley, Regional Chair, Niagara Region

“I am so thrilled to welcome Asahi Kasei as we celebrate this tremendous investment in Port Colborne and Niagara. This success would not have been possible without the incredible cooperation of all levels of government, the collaboration with our private business development partners, and the vision of the Asahi Kasei team. This investment is transformational for our region and I want to extend my sincere congratulations and appreciation to everyone involved in bringing it to fruition.” 
William Steele, Mayor, City of Port Colborne

“This historic investment by Asahi Kasei is a testament to Niagara’s attractive and competitive business environment. Today’s announcement shows that Niagara can attract global investment and is strategically positioned for growth. We are committed to continue working with governments, businesses and community partners to ensure a prosperous future for Niagara.”
- George Spezza, Director, Economic Development, Niagara Region

Media Contacts

Janine Tessmer
Communications Consultant
Niagara Region
905-401-4882
janine.tessmer@niagararegion.ca

Jasmine Peazel-Graham
Manager, Corporate Communications
City of Port Colborne
289-673-3790
Jasmine.Peazel-Graham@portcolborne.ca