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46 SMT007 MAGAZINE I SEPTEMBER 2026 LG Electronics Expands Latin American Manufacturing With New Smart Factory in Brazil LG Electronics (LG) has opened a new plant in Paraná, Brazil, reinforcing its manufacturing foot- print in Brazil and supporting long-term growth across Latin America, a key growth region for LG. Representing an investment of approximately $310 million (BRL 1.5 billion), the factory is LG's sec- ond home appliance production base in Brazil, join- ing the Manaus plant in Amazonas, which began operations nearly three decades ago. The new facil- ity spans an area of approximately 770,000 square meters and has an annual production capacity of ap- proximately 600,000 refrigerators, equivalent to one unit every 14 seconds. Smart Manufacturing for Enhanced Productivity and Quality The Paraná factory incorporates smart factory solu- tions, including AI and industrial robotics, to improve production efficiency, product quality and workplace safety. The facility applies LG's Vision AI-based in- spection systems and robotics-enabled automation to enhance product quality and production con- sistency. Articulated robots are utilized to handle physically demanding or higher-risk tasks, such as transporting refrigerator doors, helping improve workplace safety while supporting process stability. Refrigerators Tailored to Brazilian Lifestyles The expanded production infrastructure will strengthen LG's ability to bring locally tailored home appliances to market. Refrigerators made at the Paraná factory have been developed based on ex- tensive local consumer research conducted by LG's Brazil-based R&D team. Comprising approximately 40 professionals, the team ensures that designs are optimized for Brazilian homes and lifestyles. Additionally, the Paraná-produced refrigerators feature bi-voltage compatibility, reflecting Brazil's use of both 127V and 220V electrical systems. En- gineered for the country's hot and humid climate and home-entertaining culture, the appliances also come equipped with LED-based internal sanitization to help prevent bacterial growth. Strategic Production Hub for Local Supply and Regional Growth The Paraná factory will initially focus on serving Bra- zil's domestic market by enabling the timely supply of locally tailored products. Manufacturing locally is also expected to improve logistics efficiency, reduce dependence on imports, cut delivery times by up to 80 percent, and strengthen LG's responsiveness to local market needs. Over the mid-to-long term, the factory is expected to serve as a strategic production and export hub for Latin America, supporting regional growth while en- abling the company to respond more flexibly to shifts in global supply chains and evolving market condi- tions. In practice, the plant facilitates shorter logistics timelines, providing LG with greater agility in supply- ing retailers and in reacting to seasonal demand and regional trends. "The new Paraná factory strengthens our pro- duction capabilities, enabling us to ensure a sta- ble product supply and deliver appliances tailored to the evolving needs of consumers in Brazil and across Latin America," said Baek Seung-tae, presi- dent of the LG Home Appliance Solution Company. "Through this strategic investment, we will continue to deliver differentiated customer experiences and reinforce our commitment to the region." (Source: LG Electronics) PRESS RELEASE