SK Nexilis, a subsidiary of SKC specializing in copper foil manufacturing for secondary batteries, has secured a $110 million investment from Japan’s Toyota Tsusho. The deal, formalized at a signing ceremony in Seoul on June 18, 2025, involves the transfer of a partial stake in SK Nexilis’ Malaysian subsidiary to Toyota Tsusho. This partnership is designed to strengthen the operational stability of SK Nexilis’ Malaysian factory and to foster deeper collaboration in raw material procurement and next-generation battery development, positioning both companies to better serve the rapidly expanding global electric vehicle (EV) market.
Strengthening Global Supply Chains for the EV Revolution
Copper foil is a critical component in lithium-ion batteries, acting as the current collector that ensures efficient conductivity and battery performance. With the global EV market growing at an unprecedented pace, demand for high-quality copper foil is surging. SK Nexilis, recognized for its advanced manufacturing technology, supplies major battery and EV manufacturers worldwide. Toyota Tsusho, a Japanese general trading company and part of the Toyota Group, brings a robust global logistics network and expertise in sourcing key battery materials such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, and copper.
The investment and partnership are expected to deliver several strategic benefits. For SK Nexilis, the collaboration provides a stable operational foundation for its Malaysian factory, which has already secured mid- to long-term supply contracts with leading customers. For Toyota Tsusho, the move supports its ongoing initiative to construct a large-scale battery factory in the United States in cooperation with Toyota Motor, further solidifying its role in the EV supply chain.
Expanding Global Production Footprint and Raw Material Access
SK Nexilis is actively expanding its global production footprint to meet increasing demand in key EV markets. The Malaysian factory is a cornerstone of its strategy in Southeast Asia, while the Polish factory is positioned to respond swiftly to rising demand in Europe. By leveraging Toyota Tsusho’s global logistics and procurement capabilities, SK Nexilis anticipates smoother access to essential raw materials and greater resilience in its supply chain.
The partnership also includes joint efforts to develop next-generation battery technologies, building on SK Nexilis’ expertise in advanced current collectors and Toyota Tsusho’s experience in battery material innovation. This collaboration is expected to accelerate the commercialization of next-generation batteries, further enhancing the competitiveness of both companies in the global EV sector.
Copper Foil and the Battery Supply Chain
Copper foil is essential for the performance and reliability of lithium-ion batteries, which are the backbone of the EV revolution. The global push for electrification has created a surge in demand for high-quality copper foil, with manufacturers racing to secure stable supply chains and develop next-generation materials to improve battery efficiency and safety.
Company Background and Market Context
SK Nexilis, a subsidiary of SKC, is a global leader in copper foil manufacturing for secondary batteries. The company’s advanced technology and production capacity have made it a key supplier to major battery and EV manufacturers. Its factories in Malaysia and Poland are strategically located to serve growing demand in Asia and Europe.
Toyota Tsusho, part of the Toyota Group, is a major Japanese general trading company with extensive expertise in global logistics, procurement, and supply chain management. The company is actively involved in sourcing and supplying critical raw materials for the battery industry and is working to establish a comprehensive battery supply chain in North America.
