Introducing China Development Centre (CDC)

The China Tobacco Essentra Filters (CTEF) is thrilled to announce the opening of the China Development Centre (CDC) in Xiamen, Fujian Province. The CDC represents a critically important milestone in the joint venture (JV) between China Tobacco and Essentra Filters, now rebranded as Filtrona, a name synonymous with innovation and advanced filter technology in the tobacco industry.

In 2019, Filtrona entered into a strategic partnership to establish a new JV company in China. Specializing in the production of innovative Filter solutions, this JV is located at a state-of-the-art facility in Xiamen, featuring a world-class development and testing center, fully supported by the State Tobacco Monopoly Administration (STMA).

The CDC boasts a team of expert researchers and developers, utilizing best practices to develop new products. With access to Filtrona’s expansive portfolio of proprietary filter solutions, and over 11,000 unique configurations, the team is equipped to introduce advanced Filter technology to the market.

Additionally, the CDC has a well-equipped filter laboratory that offers independent scientific services, including smoke analysis. Located within the CTEF factory, this facility will be able to facilitate smooth transfers of new innovations to the operations team.

This strategic alliance represents a significant opportunity to expand in the Chinese market, and CTEF is excited to be at the forefront of this endeavor.

What is the CDC for?
The China Development Centre (CDC) is a beacon of innovation, a state-of-the-art facility designed to bring the development of specialty filters closer to the Chinese market. Operating under the mandate “developed in China for China”, the CDC sets out to create new filters that cater to the specific needs of Chinese customers, allowing us to significantly reduce the lead time to market for innovative solutions.

In addition to its role in new filter development, the CDC also allows us to produce small quantities of filters, providing customers with the opportunity to test and evaluate new prototypes or innovative filter samples, overcoming the previous challenges of importing small quantities into China.

The CDC’s close proximity to our customers also allows us to provide technical assistance in a timely manner, and stay abreast of the ever-changing tobacco landscape in China. We work closely with local Chinese customers to identify and capitalize on new opportunities.

We also regularly organize product seminars, which feature the latest “China-for-China” filters, providing a platform for us to showcase our latest industry developments and give our customers a glimpse into the future of filter technology.

Filtrona In China
China has long been a beacon of innovation in the realm of production development, and there has been a steady infusion of new product development in China with cutting-edge technology spanning the years since 1985.

One example of this is the pioneering charcoal filter, which made its debut in Shanghai in 1985. Another was the development of the first shaped filter in 1997.

More recently, the Golden Peony brand used our proprietary Superslim Corinthian filter, a unique solution with strong market appeal.

For many years, Filtrona has been a trusted partner in China, known for delivering high-quality products and dependable service. The company’s dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction has been a key factor in this success, allowing it to consistently meet the needs and exceed the expectations of its Chinese customers. Filtrona’s strong reputation in China is built on a foundation of hard work, dedication, and a commitment to excellence in all aspects of its operations.

Successes of CDC

The CDC has already made approximately 200 different filter samples in 2022. The majority of these were complex filters made using some of the latest filter technology, such as the proprietary Vortex/Thin wall tube filters.

CDC is also leading the way in filters for Heated Tobacco Product (HTP) filters, manufacturing samples for sensory testing and smoke analysis. CDC has also secured HTP development contracts with a leading IC to spearhead exciting next-generation products for China.

The establishment of the CDC has enabled us to provide unparalleled support to our Chinese customers and stay at the forefront of the constantly evolving Chinese market. We remain committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation and delivering products that are “Developed in China for China.”