WACKER transferred responsibility for marketing cyclodextrins, cystine and cysteine in Southeast Asia to DKSH in early October. Starting in November, the regional service portfolio of this market expansion services group will also include some of the chemical company's other products. The specific products in question are pyrogenic silicas (sold under the HDK® trademark) and BELSIL® functionalized silicones, both of which are used as auxiliaries or additives in a variety of formulations in personal care, food and pharmaceutical products.

WACKER has noted a growing demand in Southeast Asia for high-quality cosmetic and pharmaceutical ingredients for years. Because pyrogenic silicas and silicones are highly versatile and physiologically well tolerated, many manufacturers have begun using them for formulating sophisticated personal care and pharmaceutical products. 'The markets in Southeast Asia are experiencing dynamic growth and becoming more and more important to us,' stresses Dr. Jürgen Frisch, head of Distribution Management at WACKER. 'Collaboration with DKSH now allows us to better serve potential customers in the region while continuing to develop our market position for pyrogenic silica and BELSIL® products.'

About HDK® and BELSIL®

WACKER has been producing pyrogenic silicas under the HDK® trade name for over 40 years and is now the third largest manufacturer in this sector. A highly pure, amorphous silicon dioxide, pyrogenic silica is available in powder form for use as a filler, as an additive for adjusting viscosity and as a tool for enhancing flowability. The latter characteristic is especially valuable for the cosmetic, pharmaceutical and food industries. By preventing pigment and filler sedimentation, HDK® also improves product shelf life.

The comprehensive BELSIL® portfolio is comprised of functionalized silicones for use in cosmetic and personal care applications, and ranges from silicone oils and emulsions to waxes and resins. Silicones have excellent spreading properties, leaving skin and hair feeling pleasantly soft and lending them a glossy shine. Applications for BELSIL® silicones include deodorants, decorative cosmetics and products for hair and skin care.

About DKSH

DKSH is an international service provider in the consumer goods, healthcare and pharmaceutical industries, as well as in the performance materials and technology sector. With a primary focus on Asian markets, this market expansion services group maintains 650 subsidiaries in 35 countries worldwide, employing over 24,000 experts and achieving sales of roughly