The 7th CHINACOAT Conference, “Automotive Finishes: Focusing on the Key Aspects of Durability & Ecology,” was a tremendous success in terms of presentations and attendance. It was held Nov. 16-17 and explored technologies for improving product quality and also focused on the issue of long-term product durability and ecology. Dip Dasgupta, who serves as chairman of the CHINACOAT Conference Organizing Committee was extremely happy with the number of delegates participating in this year’s event. “We had approximately 90 attendees at the conference. During these difficult economic times attendance was normal,” he said.

The conference highlighted the problems and opportunities faced by the automotive coatings industry, which is more dynamic than ever. In the end, it was made clear that success in the automotive finishes market no longer hinges on large volumes but on sustainable performance. Reactions from the audience have been optimistic, according to Mr. Dasgupta. “Feedback has been positive,” he said. “Attendees asked a lot of questions, which is always a good sign. The topic of automotive coatings is a vibrant and a very focused subject, which is why the papers presented were selected carefully.”

Next year’s conference, “Architectural Coatings for a Sustainable World,” scheduled for Nov. 13-14, 2010, promises to be its equal.

“This conference will cover a range of new developments in the architectural coatings market, with particular emphasis on environmental sustainability,” said Mr. Dasgupta. “It will bring together the major players in this market to discuss the future direction of the market and in particular the impact of current concern about environmental sustainability.

“This assembly of professionals with shared interest provides a special opportunity for developing new working relationships as well as gaining a better understanding of market dynamics and a vas scope for innovation,” Mr. Dasgupta added. “The conference is designed to have benefits for all the elements in the architectural coatings supply chain—from raw material suppliers to paint makers through to paint retailers, specifiers and architects.”