Celanese will shut its acetate tow plant in Lanaken, Belgium, in the second half of 2026, affecting about 160 employees in manufacturing and support roles. The company has begun formal consultations with local union representatives.
The decision follows a strategic review that found the site no longer economically viable due to falling demand for acetate tow, regulatory uncertainty around tobacco products, and high energy and operating costs. The closure is part of a broader deleveraging program aimed at optimizing the cost structure.
Celanese expects total closure expenses of $70–90 million, including $55–65 million of non‑cash accelerated depreciation and $15–25 million of other shutdown cash costs, with cash outflows projected through fiscal years 2026 to 2028.
The plant has operated since the early 1970s and was a key employer in Lanaken. The shutdown follows the earlier closure of paper manufacturer Sappi, which had resulted in over 600 job losses in the region.
Celanese will continue to supply customers and honor existing contracts while working with authorities and the local community to ensure a smooth transition. CEO Frank Truyen emphasized that the decision does not reflect employees’ hard work.
The global acetate tow market, valued at $3.72 billion in 2024, is projected to decline to $2.09 billion by 2031, a negative CAGR of 8.0%, underscoring the strategic rationale for the plant’s closure.
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