The Mitsubishi Rayon group, in keeping with its comprehensive management policy of "Best Quality for a Better Life”, has aimed for a “Unique and Specialty Company”. The focus of our research has been on acrylic chemicals, plastics and fibers related businesses. We are also investing our R&D resources in the development of innovative production technologies to strengthen our core competencies in the field of water purifiers and other water-related productions and life science, which are expected growth markets. We are also making great efforts to develop functional materials and functional products corresponding to market needs and the creation of technologies further connected with new business opportunities.    Our basic policies regarding R&D are realization of the management for substantial profits and growth by acceleration of the development capacities and efficiency of commercially feasible technologies.    For the purpose of greater efficiency and accelerated development, we have implemented a technology development assessment system for selection and concentration of research projects. In addition, in order to concentrate resources and enhance responsiveness, we have reorganized our R&D structure to allow for more robust R&D activities.    Furthermore, we have expanded the technical domains by vigorously taking advantage of technical outsourcing, including joint research with industrial, administrative sectors and academia to keep up with the times promptly.    It is also critical that we encourage engineers and researchers who are both highly specialized in their technical field and business-minded. To this end, young engineers are regularly given opportunities to serve as “project leader,” and otherwise put their talents to use in a wide range of activities.     Also, through our training and utilization of our engineers, we intend to develop both specialized expertise and a sound business mind in them. Thus, we give our young generation the opportunity to choose over a wide field of topics and take the initiative, as project leaders and the like.     Also, we have established a New Research Fellow system which continuously trains and turns out engineers and researchers, honored by inside and outside our company. These professionals and specialists provide the basis of Mitsubishi Rayon's future growth, greatly strengthening our R&D capability.    With these R&D activities, the Mitsubishi Rayon group develops original technologies in good harmonization with the advances in technology and preservation of the environment. We aim to grow into a globally competitive company with its own style and a very definite presence.