Shivtek Sets Global Benchmark In Sustainable Specialty Chemicals

Since its inception in 1987 with a modest 400 MTPA capacity in Haryana, Shivtek has grown as a global leader in specialty chemicals, with a current installed capacity of 150,000 MTPA across Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, and Gujarat. A combination of strategic foresight, continuous product innovation, and operational integration has driven this growth. A key factor has been the company's early focus on backward integration, which enabled greater control over raw material sourcing, cost efficiencies, and consistent product quality.

Shivtek's ability to identify and invest in high-growth, high-margin segments such as green plasticizers, oil additives, and chlorinated intermediates has positioned it strongly in both domestic and international markets.

The company's export footprint now spans over 75 countries, reflecting its commitment to global standards and regulatory compliance. Environmental leadership has also been a core pillar of its growth strategy, evidenced by the early adoption of zero-emission technologies, Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) systems, and a consistent CRISIL A credit rating.

With a Rs 650 crore investment underway to scale its production capacity to 650,000 MTPA, including new manufacturing units in Hazira (Gujarat) and Rajasthan, Shivtek is now entering a new phase of growth. The company announced the finalization of a new manufacturing facility near Hazira, spread across 1M+ square feet. The new facility, to be operational from 2027, will add to the production capacity of 2,50,000 MTPA by 2027-28. This expansion is not only about capacity, it reflects the company's commitment to import substitution, green manufacturing, and strengthening India's position in global specialty chemical value chains.

Speaking to Bizz Buzz, Dr Amitt Nenwani, Managing Director - Shivtek Spechemi Industries Ltd, decodes the specialty chemicals market globally and in India and Shivtek's future growth path and strategies.

Excerpts:

Q: How big is the specialty chemicals market globally and in India? Where do you position yourself?

A: The global specialty chemicals market stood at $ 641.5 billion in 2023 and is growing at 5.2 per cent CAGR. In India, the segment is valued at around USD 32 billion with a 12 CAGR per cent, driven by the pharmaceuticals, construction, and automotive sectors. Shivtek is strategically positioned with exports to 75+ countries and remains one of India's few exporters of hydrocarbon-based chemicals to China. Its expansion into specialty performance additives, chlorinated paraffin, and biodegradable green plasticizers via Gastroliquid technology ensures its relevance in high-growth segments.

Upcoming units at Hazira and Rajasthan aim to support self-reliance in caustic soda and CPE, enhancing India's position in global value chains. With a continued focus on customer-centric innovation, Shivtek has solidified its reputation globally while aligning with India's ambition to lead in the manufacturing of specialty chemicals.

Q: At what capacity is Shivtek operating currently and what is the planned investment for the next 2 years?

A: Shivtek currently operates at a cumulative capacity of 150,000 MTPA, distributed across Dahej (112,800 MTPA), Kurnool (22,800 MTPA), and Rajpura (14,400 MTPA). The company plans to invest ₹650 crore to scale total capacity to 650,000 MTPA. Major projects include expanding the Lubrione product line at Dahej to 120,000 MTPA and establishing new units in Hazira and Rajasthan for the production of green plasticizers and caustic soda respectively.

Q: Can you describe your product portfolio and what sectors does Shivtek cater to?

A: Shivtek offers a well-diversified portfolio of specialty chemicals shaped by over three decades of manufacturing experience. The company's key offerings include plasticizers that enhance material flexibility and resilience, TPT and TPT(SP) tailored for precision applications, 36% hydrochloric acid used in a wide range of industrial processes, sodium hypochlorite for disinfection and bleaching, and specialty petrochemical intermediates that support downstream formulations.

With its manufacturing rooted in chemical precision and regulatory compliance, Shivtek's products are integral to sectors such as construction, textiles, agrochemicals, and industrial coatings. Shivtek's product development reflects deep technical expertise and a strong commitment to performance, safety, and sustainability in domestic and global industries.

Q: Shivtek is planning an investment of Rs 650 crore in new plants. How will this impact your market share and global competitiveness?

A: The Rs 650 crore investment will transform Shivtek's capacity from 150,000 to 650,000 MTPA and significantly improve its market share in key segments. New plants in Hazira and Rajasthan will allow domestic production of caustic soda, chlorinated polyethylene, and 100 per cent biodegradable green plasticizers, These expansions, located near key industrial clusters and ports will enhance export competitiveness and lower logistics costs. The strategic move also opens avenues for larger global partnerships.

The Hazira and Rajasthan facilities will also pioneer the production of high-grade specialty chlorinated compounds for the first time in India. This positions Shivtek not just as a national leader but as a global contender in specialty petrochemicals. With these facilities, Shivtek will be equipped to meet the rising international standards for sustainability and high-performance chemical solutions.

Q: How has the R&D at Shivtek evolved, and what kind of investments has the brand made towards the same?

A: Shivtek has made sustained R&D investments to meet its net-zero goals and respond to evolving industrial needs. Innovations include green plasticizers and cost-effective specialty variants like TPT-grade CP. Future R&D will focus on bio-based chemical materials, biodegradable solvents, and AI-driven quality control systems.

These efforts support both compliance with global norms and the company's larger objective of being a high-tech, sustainable chemical solutions provider. R&D at Shivtek continues to evolve as a strategic driver of value, ensuring long-term competitiveness and environmental leadership.

Q: What is Shivtek's strategy to reduce import dependency and strengthen the Indian specialty chemical sector?

A: India meets nearly 30 per cent of its specialty chemical needs through imports, exposing it to supply chain disruptions and price volatility. Shivtek contributes substantially to curbing this dependence by ensuring a regular supply of raw materials to key industries and boosting local manufacturing of major intermediates such as caustic soda, specialty chlorinated polymers, and specialty solvents.

With expansion in Rajasthan & Hazira, Gujarat, and process innovation at Dahej, Gujarat, the company aims to become a domestic hub for strategic intermediates. This aligns with India's Make in India vision and promotes a more resilient supply chain. Shivtek's focus on backward integration, zero-emission operations, and low-cost manufacturing reinforces its role in making India a global manufacturing destination for specialty chemicals. By boosting internal capabilities, Shivtek helps fortify the industry's stability against external shocks.

Q: Shivtek emphasizes zero-emission plants and eco-friendly production. What specific green technologies and practices have you adopted?

A: At Shivtek Spechemi Industries Ltd, sustainability is not an added layer, it is deeply integrated into our manufacturing philosophy and operational processes. As a responsible specialty chemical producer, we have adopted specific green practices that help us minimize environmental impact while driving long-term industrial efficiency.

Our plants operate on Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) principles, using Reverse Osmosis (RO) and Multi-Effect Evaporation (MEE) systems to ensure that no untreated effluent is released into the environment. We emphasize maximum material recovery during chlorination and blending operations while cooling and washing water streams are continuously recycled to reduce freshwater consumption. Additionally, we follow a closed-loop chemical processing system to minimize air exposure and reduce the emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), ensuring safer and more controlled production environments.

Across all our facilities, we deploy high-efficiency motors, automated control systems, and energy-optimized reaction setups to reduce power consumption. Process heat is recovered and reused through internal heat integration systems, which significantly lowers our energy footprint. Environmental compliance is ensured through online monitoring systems for air emissions and water discharge, supported by third-party audits and regular reporting. We maintain ambient air quality within statutory norms across all locations.

To further strengthen our sustainability agenda, Shivtek plans to integrate 250 MW of solar power into its operational energy mix. This initiative is aligned with our long-term net-zero strategy and reinforces our leadership in eco-friendly chemical manufacturing. Together, these practices reflect Shivtek's deep-rooted approach to environmental responsibility and operational excellence.

Q: In the next 3-5 years, what advancements can we expect in the specialty chemicals industry and how does Shivtek plan to contribute towards it?

A: Over the next 3–5 years, the specialty chemicals sector is expected to embrace green chemistry, biodegradable materials, and automation. Shivtek is already aligned with these trends via green plasticizers, specialty biofuel innovations, and real-time quality systems. Its capacity expansion and R&D pipeline are tailored for high-growth sectors like pharmaceuticals, coatings, and clean fuels. The company's continued investment in sustainable technologies and domestic capacity will enable it to lead the next phase of India's specialty chemical evolution and expand its global footprint in value-added, eco-conscious solutions. Shivtek is poised to play a critical role in shaping the industry's sustainable future.

Q: How are the global challenges and uncertainties impacting the business of Shivtek?

A: Like the broader industry, Shivtek faces raw material volatility and global supply chain pressures. However, it has mitigated risks through forward contracts, localized sourcing of key inputs like salt and hydrocarbons, and diversification of export markets. Its strong presence in over 75 countries, including China, buffers against regional disruptions.

The company is reinforcing India's position as a global player in the specialty chemicals space, augmenting the competitive stature of the industry internationally. Through strategic vision and successful implementation of plans, Shivtek is primed to become a segment leader in specialty chemicals, generating economic prosperity while building a cleaner, greener, self-reliant future.