Vista2027: Nissan Chemical’s Vision

By Daniel de Bomford and Cian O’Neill

In the future, when the next generation enjoys the natural world, with the smells of flowers in bloom and the sights of crystal-clear waters, it will be a gift from today. Likewise, in the workplaces of the future, which will be equitable, inclusive and supportive, these environments will be shaped by the decisions companies make today. To reach this future, innovation is crucial, from the chemicals we use to the workplaces we operate.

For Japan, industrial innovation is deeply ingrained in the country’s DNA, especially in the chemical sector. Japanese companies have led countless scientific and industrial discoveries. Shinsuke Yagi, President of Nissan Chemical Corporation, notes that numerous Nobel Prizes have been awarded to Japanese researchers, and the country attracts some of the world’s top researchers.

He points to these researchers as the foundation of the industry: “At Nissan Chemical, precise organic synthesis skills and knowledge based on the freewheeling thinking by our researchers are the major backbone of our business.” This expertise is integrated across the company’s business segments and reflects the core strength of the organization.

Nissan Chemical launched its six-year midterm plan, Vista2027 in 2022. Stage I concluded in 2024, marking a period of strong financial performance, particularly in performance materials and agricultural chemicals. A core part of the company’s foundation in 1887 was its commitment to contributing to society through the advancement of agriculture. This vision was reflected in Stage I's agricultural focus, resulting in a sales increase of ¥20 billion ($129 million) and an 18 percent increase in revenue.

In performance materials, the widespread adoption of AI has driven the growth of Nissan Chemical’s advanced materials, like its Extreme Ultraviolet Lithography (EUV) and temporary bonding material for High Bandwidth Memory (HBM). To support its ambitions, it has opened its first pesticide factory in India and a third facility in Korea to support its semiconductor materials business.

Granulation Tower: Symbol of Toyama Plant

Having set ambitious growth, sales and profit targets for Stage II, Nissan Chemical emphasizes a swift time-to-market for its products. At the same time, Yagi recognizes the importance of ensuring the company can scale production to meet demand.

Semiconductors and agro-industries remain a core focus for growth. “Our mid-term strategy outlines that 70% of our operating resources will be allocated to agricultural chemicals and performance materials divisions,” Yagi says. During this phase, the company is also expanding into new areas such as healthcare, through the development of pharmaceuticals and materials for regenerative medicines.

Vista2027 isn’t solely about financial growth and development. Sustainability plays a key role in Nissan Chemical’s midterm strategy. One of the company’s key performance indicators is its “sustainable agenda,” which measures the contribution of each product to society. “Improving that ratio is a central objective for us,” Yagi says.

The company has a history of sustainability, having exited the petrochemical sector while pursuing ambitious CO2 reduction targets. Beyond the natural environment, the company is working to improve diversity and equity within the workplace with a focus on recruiting women and foreign nationals.

For Yagi, the real challenge comes from shifting mindsets; researchers give their all and are resistant to giving up. At each stage of product development, progress must be assessed, and a decision must be made to either halt or continue. “Making these decisions at the right time is key to improving our overall success rate,” he says.

But at every step, every decision is being made with future generations in mind. Yagi summarizes Nissan Chemical’s philosophy, “At its heart, our goal is to make a meaningful contribution both in Japan and globally through our products.”

To hear more from President Yagi Shinsuke of Nissan Chemical Corporation, check out this interview with him.