METabolic EXplorer & Bio-XCell Complete First-phase of the PDO Plant Project in Malaysia

CLERMONT-FERRAND, France and KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia -- METabolic EXplorer, a green chemistry company that specializes in the development of bioprocesses for the production of chemical compounds used in a wide range of everyday products (textile fibers, paints, solvents, animal feed supplements, adhesives, etc.) and Malaysian Bio-XCell (Bio-XCell) the developer of the Bio-XCell biotechnology park and ecosystem in the Iskandar region of Malaysia, have shared an update regarding the development of METabolic EXplorers plant construction project in Malaysia.

Recently, METabolic EXplorer and Bio-XCell signed an agreement establishing that a seven-month period would be required to pursue METabolic EXplorers plant construction project in Malaysia in the best possible conditions. To recap, the period is split into three main phases:

The initial-phase analyses are now complete. In parallel, METabolic EXplorer and Bio-XCell have already launched discussions aimed at amending the existing contract, notably to adjust the schedule and financing plan to the new situation.

Initial discussions have confirmed the determination of both partners to make the METabolic Explorer plant a benchmark in this new innovative regional biotech park in Asia Pacific.

About METabolic EXplorer

METabolic EXplorer is a biological chemistry company which was incorporated in 1999. Its goal is to help industrial businesses deal with the projected rise in oil prices, so that they can continue to manufacture but in a sustainable way. Based on the tried and tested principle of industrial fermentation, METabolic Explorers solutions replace todays petrochemical processes with the use of a wide range of plant-based raw materials. By optimizing the metabolic yield of non-pathogenic bacteria in a contained, controlled environment, the company facilitates the production of chemical compounds used in a wide range of everyday goods (textile fibers, paints, solvents, plastics and animal feed).

METabolic EXplorer is currently focusing its alternative processes on the production of five compounds that together have an estimated, annual, end-market value of ?1 billion. The companys strategy will be implemented in forms such as own-account developments (i.e., manufacturing plants) in geographically strategic regions and via limited exclusivity industrial partnerships in the shape of joint ventures and licenses. METabolic EXplorer, based in Clermont-Ferrand, France, is listed on EURONEXT PARIS (EURONEXT C, METEX) and features in CAC Small.

About Bio-XCell

Bio-XCell, a biotechnology park and ecosystem dedicated to healthcare and industrial biotechnology is being developed by Malaysian Bio-XCell Sdn Bhd, a joint venture company formed between Malaysian Biotechnology Corporation and property developer UEM Land Berhad. Bio-XCell is strategically located on 160 acres in Nusajaya, within the Iskandar region of Johor, Malaysia, and close to the border with Singapore providing global connectivity through a network of five seaports and two international airports, all within 59 km.

Bio-XCell has been planned to offer an environment conducive for the development and manufacturing of biologics, pharmaceuticals, bio-based / green chemicals and other solutions to heal, fuel and green the world. As a managed park, Bio-XCell will provide its clients and investors with a range of value added benefits including comprehensive infrastructure, high speed internet access, park maintenance and security as well as core facilities to nurture the ecosystem. Key facilities of the park include the Central Hub and Central Utilities Facility (CUF). The Central Hub is a centrally located, multipurpose complex featuring a business center, auditorium, lab & office space as well as amenities such as F&B and retail outlets. The CUF will provide specialized utilities for bio manufacturing to the parks clients. As an alternative to building a customized facility, clients can also locate their operations in one of the ready-built standard shell buildings which can be fitted out to suit the specific operational needs of the client.