Outlook 2014: Rubber market in Asia continues to thrive

Increased consumption in the wake of stable rubber supply is expected to boost the rubber industry in 2014. The International Rubber Study Group expects global demand to grow annually by 3.8% with China making up for the slack in European economies. China accounts for about 35% of global demand for natural and synthetic rubber, used mainly to make tyres. The IRSG’s forecast is based on several economic scenarios and one of them being the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) projections of a 3.3%

Outlook 2014: Dynamic Asia Pacific as stable industrial base

Asia Pacific remains a highly dynamic and diversified region with an economic growth that is outperforming other regions of the world. High investment inflows, robust industries and rising consumption are factors that continue to drive growth for the plastics industry in the region.

Ticking all the boxes

To remain a player in the increasingly competitive plastics market, a leading masterbatch manufacturer in China has its eye on the bottom line. Shanghai Xiner Low-Carbon Environmental Co. Ltd. is intent on reducing costs and simplifying manufacturing processes. At the same time, however, the company remains focused on the future and serving the increasingly higher requirements of its customers.

The next-generation consumer electronics

The market for consumer electronics and lifestyle products has grown rapidly throughout the years due to the rising middle class segment of the society. According to a report conducted by Clearwater Corporate Finance in 2012, annual spending by the global middle class will reach $20 trillion by 2020. Global Industry Analysts Inc. has calculated the consumer electronics sector alone will be worth up to $1.4 trillion by 2015.

Fast, high-precision extrusion systems

The wide variety of extrusion systems available in the market today has given manufacturers of plastics products an edge in terms of efficiency and cost control.

Pioneering spirit rewarded

Established in 1966, Chuan Lih Fa (CLF) started with a small capital and a few people. Now, it has grown into an international corporation serving wide international markets with its injection moulding machines. The last five decades saw CLF as it endeavours to establish a brand that would become a shining star in this field. International Plastics News for Asia (IRNA) had the opportunity to interview Mr. Thomas Lin, General Manager of CLF, on how the company has grown into a world-class machine

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