US-based producer of emulsion polymers, specialty chemicals, and decorative and functional surfaces Omnova Solutions has established Omnova Performance Chemicals Trading (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. in order to expand the company's presence in the Asia-Pacific region. Omnova Asia will extend the sales and servicing of the company’s emulsion polymer and specialty chemicals technology, while building on its business relationships throughout the region.

Headed by Sherry Xia, newly appointed as Asia-Pacific business manager for Performance Chemicals, the new company will focus on promoting specialty products including textile chemicals, emulsion polymers for nonwovens, and tapesand adhesive applications.

With 2004 sales of $746 million, Omnova employs 1,850 people worldwide.