ABCD Signs MOU with Malaysia’s CICB — APOLLO High-Heat Masking Tape to Be Exclusively Distributed in Japan | ABCD Inc.
ABCD Corporation (1-3-9 Iwamoto-chō, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; CEO Tatsuya Shiono) and Central Industrial Corporation Berhad (CICB) (Lot 77 & 78, Persiaran 11, Kawasan Perusahaan Bakar Arang, 08000 Sungai Petani, Kedah, Malaysia; Group Managing Director Mr.Chew Hian Tat) signed a memorandum of understanding on 13 May 2025 in Tokyo covering business collaboration in the masking-tape sector and concluded an exclusive distributorship for the “APOLLO” series within Japan. The two companies will jointly bring high-temperature-resistant, cost-competitive tapes to Japan’s automotive refinishing and building-renovation markets.
1. Background
Japan’s industrial masking-tape market continues to expand across the automotive, construction and electronics fields, with demand rising sharply for the medium-temperature range (90 – 150 °C). While global brands such as 3M and Nichiban command strong shares, growing emphasis on price competitiveness and stable supply in this segment has created new opportunities for alternative producers.
2. Details of the Collaboration
- Purpose of the MOU: expansion of sales channels, joint marketing and technical exchange
- ABCD: will leverage its nationwide network of more than 2,000 paint-related distributors and contractors to accelerate market penetration
- CICB: founded in 1972, ISO 9001-certified specialist in adhesive tapes, exporting to 26 countries
- APOLLO M502: withstands 150 °C / 302 °F for 30 minutes
- APOLLO M508C: cost-efficient model rated 90 °C / 194 °F for 30 minutes
- Additional SKUs include the M500, M506 and other grades covering general-purpose to high-performance uses
3. Significance
- Customer benefits: auto-body shops and renovation contractors gain a “high-heat, zero-residue” option while cutting procurement costs by up to 30 %
- Sustainability: the full APOLLO line is compliant with RoHS and REACH, supporting lower environmental impact
- Industry impact: overseas manufacturer participation will intensify competition and enhance supply security in Japan
Facts Sheet
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Partnership format | MOU ＋ Exclusive Distribution Agreement (Japan) |
| Covered products | APOLLO M500 / M506 / M508C / M502 and related grades |
| Main targets | Automotive refinishing, construction painting, DIY retail |
| Joint initiatives | Domestic trade-show exhibits, co-branded website, technical seminars |
Company Profiles
ABCD inc.
1-3-9 Iwamoto-chō, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0032, Japan
Chief Executive Officer: Tatsuya Shiono
Central Industrial Corporation Berhad (CICB)
Lot 77 & 78, Persiaran 11, Kawasan Perusahaan Bakar Arang,
08000 Sungai Petani, Kedah, Malaysia
Managing Director: Dato’ Lee Khai Loon
