Mitsui Chemicals to Expand Production Capacity for MR™ High-Refractive-Index Ophthalmic Lens Material
Strengthening the brand’s overall supply capacity to respond to growing global demand
2026.06.03
Mitsui Chemicals, Inc.
Mitsui Chemicals, Inc. (Tokyo: 4183; President & CEO: ICHIMURA Satoshi) today announced plans to boost production capacity for its world-leading MR™ series of high refractive-index lens material.
MR™ by Mitsui Chemicals is the de facto standard in high-refractive-index lens materials. As a leader in revolutionizing eyewear products by manufacturing premium lens materials, Mitsui Chemicals supports lens manufacturers worldwide across the value chain through the development of top tier lens materials and high-quality coating materials.
High-refractive-index ophthalmic lenses are high-performance products that enable thinner, lighter designs. High-refractive-index ophthalmic lenses are forecasted for long term growth due to the continued growth of the world population and the increasing myopia population. The demand for this segment of value‑enhanced offerings continues to grow particularly in Asia and North America.
In response to rising market demand, Mitsui Chemicals will expand its MR™ production capabilities at Omuta Works through the construction of a new plant, with commercial operations planned for the first half of 2029.
This expansion covers multiple MR™ brand portfolio. This facility expansion will comprehensively increase supply capacity across a wide production lineup and further strengthen the supply system for global markets.
Through the Vision Care Materials Division, Mitsui Chemicals will continue to pursue its commitment to product development aimed at vision correction and improving the health and comfort of the eyes, based on the Quality of View (QoV) concept.* This is in alignment with the Mitsui Chemicals Group’s mission to bring people a better view of the world.
Omuta Works
Overview of capacity increase
| 1 | Product | High refractive-index lens material (MR™) MR™ is an opthalmic lens material that offers a high Abbe value and a high refractive index to minimize chromatic aberration while also lightweight and impact-resistant. The product lineup includes several grades with different refractive indices.
MR™ brand site: https://jp.mitsuichemicals.com/en/special/mr/ |
|---|---|---|
| ２ | Location | Mitsui Chemicals Omuta Works |
| ３ | Address | 30 Asamutamachi, Omuta, Fukuoka |
| ４ | Schedule | Commercial operations to begin in the first half of 2029 |
※QoV：A measure of quality and satisfaction in all areas related to eyes and eyesight in our lives. The term encompasses vision optimization and comfort, ocular health, and measures to prevent optical diseases.
