Sylacauga-based Pursell Agri-Tech is teaming up with a Southeast Asian firm to build a Malaysian fertilizer facility.

Beyond Malaysia, the facility will serve agribusiness markets across Southeast Asia, as well as Australia, New Zealand, South Korea and Japan.

The partnership with Wastech Group is centered on the production of advanced controlled release fertilizers.

Controlled-released fertilizers, or CRFs, gradually release nutrients over an extended period, CRFs ensure plants receive a consistent supply of essential nutrients, reducing the need for frequent fertilizer applications.

This approach results in improved nutrient efficiency, lower labor costs and less fertilizer waste.

Pursell is combining its nutrient delivery technology with Wastech’s market expertise and agronomic insights. A groundbreaking ceremony for the new facility was held last week.

“Partnering with Wastech to build a plant in Malaysia is ideal,” Pursell CEO Tim Ferguson said. “It’s located near key substrate and material suppliers and creates opportunities to address the diverse nutrition needs of customers in the region in a predictable, prescriptive and profitable way.”

Christina Stimpson, chief officer of global business for the Alabama Department of Commerce, said the project is a “testament to the state’s ability to foster global collaborations that drive both technological advancement and economic growth.”