In response to market demand and the drive to lead the sustainable development and upgrading of the plastics and rubber industries, an international industry conference, the World Trends & Plastics & Rubber Technology Summit, has been hosted for the first time during CHINAPLAS, from April 23 to 25, 2024, at National Convention Center, South Hall. 

The premier event brought together industry experts, innovators, and leaders to share the latest market updates and technological solutions, attracting global participants from diverse sectors, including downstream brands, plastics and rubber material and equipment manufacturers, industry associations and research institutions. 

The World Trends & Plastics & Rubber Technology Summit kicked off yesterday. 

Expert perspectives and dialogues about latest trends and outlook

The inaugural day of the summit witnessed a plethora of informative keynote sessions and engaging panel discussions, providing invaluable insights into the megatrends, opportunities, challenges and future trajectory of the global plastics industry. 

The event kicked off with keynote speeches delivered by distinguished experts across different sectors. Mario Maggiani, Secretary General, Council of International Plastics Association Directors (CIPAD), shared an overview of the global trends of the industry and the main challenges.

Mario Maggiani, Secretary General, CIPAD.

Wang Zhanjie, President, China Plastics Processing Industry Association, shed light on the current landscape of China’s plastic processing industry. Meanwhile, Su Dongping, Executive Vice President, China Plastics Machinery Industry Association, presented the economic operation analysis of the domestic plastic machinery industry.

Dr. Raju Desai, Vice President, Plastindia Foundation, offered valuable insights to participants seeking to navigate the evolving landscape in India. 

In his presentation, CC Cheah, President, Malaysian Plastics Manufacturers Association, addressed the market trends and challenges facing the local industry. He believes that technological improvements and eco-friendly solutions are the main drivers for sustainable growth.

During the second part of the summit, Thorsten Kühmann, Secretary General of EUROMAP and Managing Director of VDMA Plastics and Rubber Machinery, enlightened the participants about the winds of change in European plastics technology. In his view, in addition to the current weakness in demand, the focus would be on challenges with regard to the openness of the markets, the tough requirements for sustainability, high energy prices and the worldwide shortages of skilled junior staff.

Matt Seaholm, CEO and Dr. Perc Pineda, Chief Economist, from Plastics Industry Association, provided up-to-date synopsis of the latest economic trends and plastics production data in the US, and covered the market trends and the global outlook for the industry.

Aldimir Torres Arenas, President, Mexican National Association of the Plastics Industries, A.C (ANIPAC), shared how the Mexican industry is aligned with the concepts of sustainability and circular economy, and its commitment increasingly extends to the region.

Preview: A glimpse into tomorrow's landscape and innovation

Looking ahead to the second day of the summit, it promises to deliver further insights and inspirations to participants, with an exciting lineup of speakers and topics. Renowned equipment and material suppliers, such as ARBURG, KUKA, BORCH, EREMA, ENGEL, WITTMANN, SABIC, Wanhua Chemical, Covestro and Borouge, will present their latest innovative technology solutions.

One of the focal themes of Day 2 is “Digitalization for Industrial Transformation and Sustainability”. Presentations will focus on the role of technology in optimizing manufacturing processes, enhancing productivity, improving product quality, as well as achieving sustainable outcomes. 

During the afternoon sessions, with the theme of “Innovative Technology for Green Energy”, experts will discuss the latest developments in materials science, including bio-based polymers and advanced composites, and their potential applications in various sectors.

Tomorrow the summit will close with the session of “Innovative Technology for Electric Vehicles”, focusing on the latest solutions of lightweighting and sustainability for electric vehicles.