Chem-Trend L.P., a Howell-based manufacturer and developer of high-performance mold release agents and casting lubricants, is expanding its manufacturing, research and development facilities in China, Brazil and India.

The investments will support specific industry growth in each country, provide on-site customer service, enhance product quality, increase product availability and reduce supply chain time, Chem-Trend said.

Chem-Trend’s R&D expansions are designed to meet regional demand with locally customized products, the company said. This continues the company’s longstanding commitment to class-leading customer service, fast response times and product-line support, it said.

The company expects to open new facilities at its plant in Valinhos, Brazil, in mid-2015, it said.

Chem-Trend is working with its sister company SurTec in the development of a new administration, laboratory and manufacturing facility in Valinhos, the company said. The laboratory will have enhanced capabilities to further support its customers’ manufacturing processes and product development while creating greater flexibility in product localization, it said.

In Mysore, India, Chem-Trend is working with sister companies OKS and Kluber Lubrication to expand product offerings in specialty lubricants and chemo-technical solutions for maintenance and repair in the polyurethane, die case, tire and general rubber product segments, Chem-Trend said.

The project includes administrative and warehouse facilities, a technical center and manufacturing operations and allows for expanded sales support, customer and technical service and product development, the company said.

Phase One of the Mysore expansion was completed in June 2013. The project is scheduled for completion in 2016, it said.

In Qingpu, China, Chem-Trend is investing $24 million in partnership with Kluber Lubrication for expansion of its chemical specialties operation there.

Utilizing the latest processing technology, the expansion will include a new R&D center designed to develop distinct product solutions for consumers in the region, Chem-Trend said. It will have areas for application testing and engineering, as well as special laboratories dedicated to release agents, process aids and lubricants.

Significant aspects of the project should be completed in 2015, with expanded warehouse and bulk storage facilities to be finished sometime later, the company said.

Founded in 1960, Chem-Trend is a member of the Freudenberg Group, as are its partner firms in the China, India and Brazil expansions.