November 28, 2025 [Storage Terminals Magazine]- Aster, a leading provider of energy and chemical solutions in Southeast Asia, has announced an agreement with Hitachi Asia Ltd (Hitachi) to acquire advanced compressor solutions to double its ethylene export capacity at the Aster Bukom island facility. The investment strengthens Aster’s ability to meet rising regional and global demand for ethylene, a vital petrochemical building block for products spanning plastics, textiles and specialty chemicals.

Under the agreement, Hitachi, through its factory in Japan operated by Hitachi Industrial Products, Ltd., will deliver two new compressor units for scheduled delivery in January 2027. The investment will enable installation of a parallel ethylene chiller system, expand outbound ethylene logistics and enhance operational flexibility and efficiency. The project will also deepen synergy between Bukom and the Chandra Asri cracker facility in Cilegon, unlocking further integration and optimisation across the regional C2 derivatives value chain.

Mashhad Dohadwala, Aster’s director for projects & technology, said: “With the installation of a parallel chiller to double ethylene export capacity, Aster is strengthening the regional supply network while supporting Singapore’s position as a key petrochemical export hub, backed by 1.1 million metric tons of cracker capacity annually. This project complements Aster’s continued focus on efficiency, reliable supply and innovation as outlined in our recent investments, including enhancement of crude and product logistics, renewable operations and the expansion of sustainable packaging solutions. Our partnership with Hitachi is a clear demonstration of how we are expanding our assets with trusted global partners to build a resilient and integrated chemicals ecosystem.”

Chew Huat Seng, general manager of Industrial Products Business Unit, Hitachi Asia Ltd., said: “We are honoured to be part of this critical expansion project led by our valued customer. Building on a long and deep-rooted partnership with Aster, Hitachi Asia and Hitachi Industrial Products will ensure smooth project execution, delivery, commissioning and further our long working term relationship with Aster. We remain focused on delivering meaningful goals and shaping a sustainable future together.”