"Great things in business are never done by one person. They're done by a team of people." - Steve Jobs

Hyosung TNC, the world leader in the spandex market, boasts a rich history and tradition. Geno, with its groundbreaking technology, produces bio-based 1,4-Butanediol (BDO) derived from sugarcane. Together, these two companies have forged a partnership, marking the dawn of a new era for sustainable textiles.

Hyosung TNC's journey began in 1992, when it became the first in Korea to develop spandex, branded as CREORA, using its proprietary technology. Through continuous research, development, and strategic marketing, Hyosung TNC has grown into a global leader, capturing over 30% of the world's spandex market. Producing over 200,000 tons of spandex annually, CREORA is Hyosung TNC’s flagship product, widely used in underwear, swimwear, sportswear, and more.

▲ World's No. 1 Hyosung Creora spandex

Geno: A Leader in Sugarcane-based Bio BDO

Geno is at the forefront of biotechnology innovation. By fermenting sugars from sugarcane, Geno produces Bio BDO, a sustainable alternative to traditional fossil fuel-based BDO production methods. This technology significantly reduces environmental impact and is instrumental in lowering the carbon footprint across various industries, including textiles, cosmetics, and automotive.

▲ Geno Labs (Photo source: https: //www.genomatica.com/careers/ )

Synergy in Partnership

Hyosung TNC and Geno are joining forces to establish a Bio BDO production facility at HYOSUNG’s Vietnam plant. Set to be the world's first fully integrated manufacturing facility from renewable raw materials to textiles, it will begin Bio BDO production in the second quarter of 2026. With an initial annual production capacity of 50,000 tons, scalable to 200,000 tons, this facility will enhance production efficiency, swiftly meet customer demands, and minimize carbon emissions.

The partnership between Hyosung TNC and Geno promises significant advancements in textile industry’s sustainability. By leveraging Geno's Bio BDO technology, Hyosung TNC will produce regen BIO Spandex, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and cutting carbon emissions. This collaboration represents not just a technological innovation but a critical step towards environmental protection and sustainable industry development.

This strategic alliance also holds substantial advantages in increasing economic efficiency as well as strengthening market competitiveness. By utilizing sugarcane-based Bio BDO to produce high-quality regen Bio Spandex, Hyosung TNC strengthens its partnerships with global sports brands, while meeting the rising demand for spandex in anticipation of major international sports events,

Enhancing Global Leadership and Trustworthiness

This partnership strengthens leadership in the global market and increases credibility. Both companies collaborate towards common goals, establishing themselves as more trusted brands through sustainable product development and supply chain management. Hyosung TNC has become a partner of Textile Exchange and obtained international sustainability and carbon certifications, including SGS and ISCC+. These certifications strengthen the environmental credibility of their bio-based spandex products.

The relationship between the two companies is planned to expand continuously beyond 2026. They aim to expand annual production capacity to 200,000 tons to meet market demand for regen BIO Spandex and expand sustainable fiber products through more partnerships with global brands. This will elevate sustainability in the textile industry and contribute to environmental protection.

The innovative collaboration between Hyosung TNC and Geno is paving the way for a sustainable future in the textile industry. Spandex made using Bio BDO reduces the carbon footprint, increases production efficiency, and enhances competitiveness. This marks a significant turning point, solidifying their position as global leaders and greatly improving the sustainability of the textile industry.