11.5 billion investment in Gödöllő: XiMo begins construction of its innovative metathesis catalyst manufacturing plant

XiMo’s parent company, German-based Verbio SE, is investing 27.7 million euros (11.5 billion forints) in the project, which is supported by a 20 percent subsidy from the Hungarian government, i.e. 5.5 million euros (2.2 billion forints). The new facility will enable the industrial-scale application of the Nobel Prize-winning technology, opening up new horizons for a sustainable, greener chemical industry.

Production to start in summer 2026

The plant will produce molybdenum, tungsten and ruthenium-based catalysts, which play an important role in the reaction called olefin metathesis – a significant and novel approach to sustainable chemistry. The technology enables the chemical industry to use renewable, plant-based raw materials – such as rapeseed oil derivatives – instead of fossil raw materials. This enables the production of high-value-added products from biological raw materials, such as pest-specific pheromones, plant-based fragrances and flavors, lubricants, surfactants and polymers. Olefin metathesis thus plays an important role in the transition to a low-carbon, circular economy. “The new plant will enable us to produce molybdenum, tungsten and ruthenium-based catalysts on an industrial scale,” said Dr. Ondi Levente, CEO of XiMo Hungary Kft. “We plan to start regular production in the summer of 2026.”

Recognition and support from the Hungarian government

The groundbreaking ceremony took place at the Gödöllő Business Industrial Park, where government officials, company representatives and business partners gathered to celebrate the start of construction. The Hungarian government was represented by Deputy Minister and Parliamentary State Secretary Levente Magyar, who highlighted the significance of the investment. The city of Gödöllő was represented at the event by the Mayor of Gödöllő, Dr. György Gémesi. The Hungarian government emphasized the economic and environmental significance of the new XiMo plant at the ceremony. Theodor Niesmann, Chief Technology Officer of Verbio SE, highlighted: “On behalf of Verbio, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Hungarian government and Deputy Minister Magyar for their trust in the project and their continued support. We greatly appreciate their commitment.”