3,300+ industry players in full force at CHINAPLAS 2017

The opening today (May 16) of Asia’s biggest exhibition for the plastics and rubber industries, CHINAPLAS 2017, brings a wider range of exhibits meeting the needs of existing and emerging applications. There are more than 3,300 exhibitors from China, the rest of Asia, and other parts of the world. Among the exhibitors, about 40% came from outside China, while about 15% are participating for the first time. There are 13 international pavilions, with Iran Pavilion making its debut. Over 140,000 plastics industry professionals from 160 countries and regions are expected to visit the show, while more than 150 buyer delegations are arriving for business negotiations and sourcing. CHINAPLAS truly retains its important role as a leading international platform showcasing next-generation technologies, equipment, and raw materials.

Over the years, CHINAPLAS has satisfied the demands of customers in key end markets including automotive, building and construction, packaging, electrical and electronics, information technology, telecommunications and medical. This edition is no exception as these sectors reap the full benefits of innovations undertaken by leading companies in the plastics and rubber industries.

The theme "Greenovation for a Smart Future" is aptly described in the range of exhibits that are strongly promoting the advantages of smart manufacturing, the use of high-tech materials and application of “green solutions” in plastics and rubber manufacturing. The 16 theme zones offer visitors highly specialized solutions in response to various production challenges.

Intelligent manufacturing or smart manufacturing remains a dominant objective, with digitalization moving a step higher with the more advanced processing systems geared to help Asian plastics producers move toward this scenario. The renaming of "Automation Technology Zone" into "Smart Manufacturing Technology Zone" clearly reflects the industry’s intensified interest in intelligent manufacturing.

The new generation of high-performance materials on exhibit includes composites and other engineering plastics that were developed for high strength, strong heat resistance, flame retardance, UV resistance and anti-bacterial properties. More interesting are the bioplastics on display that offer the design flexibility and unique properties that meet today’s complex requirements. 

At the Design Forum, part of the "Design x Innovation" event held at CHINAPLAS 2017, designers once again feature their creations for smarter living. The prototypes developed under the TRIO co-creation project bring out the creative spirit of top designers and brand owners, facilitated by BASF and using its advanced materials. The three-day Design Forum is expected to show visitors the complex process of design, from inspiration to discovery and product development.