Mitsubishi Chemical's HISHITANK™ at NSF Japan Water Forum 2026
Mitsubishi Chemical InfraTech, headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo, took center stage during the NSF Japan Water Forum 2026, where it presented a panel discussion on its flagship product, HISHITANK™. This presentation focused on the product's achievement of the prestigious NSF61 certification and its practical applications that enhance safety and reliability in water storage.
The NSF Japan Water Forum is co-hosted by the NSF, a globally recognized third-party certification body from the U.S., and the Commercial Section of the U.S. Embassy in Japan. This event is an opportunity for experts and stakeholders in the drinking water industry to discuss the latest trends in regulations, certification systems, and market dynamics.
HISHITANK™: Trusted for Over 60 Years
HISHITANK™ is a bolt-assembled fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) water tank that has been appreciated for over six decades, both domestically and internationally. It is widely utilized in schools, hospitals, factories, and condominiums, serving various purposes such as drinking water storage, firefighting, and cooling systems. Its versatility and reliability make it an essential component of society’s infrastructure, contributing significantly to public safety and comfort.
Recent installations of HISHITANK™ at locations like the Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center highlight its expansion into the North American market. In line with these efforts, Mitsubishi Chemical secured the NSF61 certification in 2019, a crucial regulatory standard that assesses the safety of products and materials that come into contact with drinking water.
The Importance of NSF61 Certification
The NSF61 certification is not only a seal of safety but also a gateway to broader market opportunities. This international standard ensures that the HISHITANK™ does not leach harmful substances, thus affirming its appropriateness for varied applications, including rainwater reuse and firefighting. Through this certification process, Mitsubishi Chemical has successfully introduced HISHITANK™ to diverse sectors within the U.S. market, promoting its use in drinking water systems, among others.
During the panel discussion at the forum, local and international stakeholders shared insights into the challenges, impacts, and case studies associated with implementing NSF-certified products. The discussions highlighted the financial and operational advantages derived from NSF certification, enhancing market perception by substantiating product safety and hygiene internationally.
Mitsubishi Chemical’s panelist, Itsuki Sugihara, underscored how gaining NSF certification has provided the company with newfound opportunities to propose their products not just for non-drinking applications but also for drinking water systems. This pivot is significant, particularly as NSF is a globally recognized hygiene standard, ensuring customers first adopting HISHITANK™ can trust its safety and reliability.
Continuous Innovations and Standards
The rigorous standards set by NSF necessitate ongoing quality management and regular audits, which Mitsubishi Chemical adheres to in order to maintain the high reliability and safety of HISHITANK™. The materials and development processes are continuously refined to meet stringent safety parameters, affirming the commitment to leading the industry in water infrastructure technology.
As the company looks forward, it pledges to uphold the quality of HISHITANK™ and to address international safety standards, reinforcing its role in creating a safe and dependable water infrastructure for future generations.
Conclusion
The NSF Japan Water Forum 2026 serves as a vital platform for sharing industry expertise, discussing regulations, and networking among professionals in the water sector. Mitsubishi Chemical InfraTech’s involvement and the showcasing of HISHITANK™ signify the blend of innovation and commitment to safety in enhancing water management systems worldwide.
For further information, visit Mitsubishi Chemical InfraTech's
corporate site and explore the expert site for panel tanks at the links provided.