PILKINGTON is to become the first major multi-national glass manufacturer to enter Iran.

The company is to construct a 180,000 tonnes per year float glass plant on behalf of Ghazin Glass Company, the largest glass producer in Iran and will jointly control the business with the current majority shareholder.

Pilkington chief executive, Paolo Scaroni said: "This represents an exciting growth opportunity and is a clear example of Pilkington capitalising on its technological leadership".