T-PLAS, the International Trade Fair for the Plastics and Rubber Industries, is making a highly anticipated comeback to Bangkok, Thailand, from 20-23 September 2023, after a four-year pandemic-induced hiatus. The trade fair continues to serve as a wide-ranging business and sourcing platform for the plastics and rubber industries, showcasing the latest machinery, equipment, raw materials, and services.
Thailand's standing as a leading regional hub for plastics manufacturing, coupled with its potential to become a bio-plastics hub in the next decade, positions the country as an attractive market for international businesses. In a week’s time, T-PLAS 2023 will bring together 250 exhibitors from 20 countries – including; manufacturers, producers, and industry experts serving the plastics and rubber value chain from around the world. National and country groups are also expected from Austria, China, Germany, India, Italy, Malaysia, Singapore, and Taiwan.
Against a dynamic backdrop, T-PLAS 2023 is timely as the plastics market continues to be driven by increasing demand for packaging materials and biodegradable plastics. The market's growth is being further catalysed by the increasing applications of plastic across various sectors, from food and beverage, textiles, automotive, to construction, and electrical & electronics. Potential for further growth is particularly high as demand for bioplastics continues, especially in developed countries is rising. Currently, 90 percent of Thailand’s bioplastics production is exported.
Thailand has emerged as the world's second-largest producer of bioplastics, only trailing behind the United States, a testament to the Thai government's commitment to the bio-circular-green (BCG) economy as a means to achieve greater economic and environmental sustainability. The country is well-positioned in part because of its robust agricultural sector that provides a wealth of raw materials for bio and green industry.
T-PLAS 2023 aims to navigate the complex and dynamic landscape of the plastics industry and contribute to the shift towards a circular economy by addressing challenges and opportunities in areas such as advanced processing and sorting technologies, development of new materials, and efficient recycling infrastructures. This comes as Thailand enters Phase 3 of its 12-year road map (2018-2030) on plastic waste management, with a strong focus on reducing single-use plastics and achieving a 100% target for recycled plastics based on circular economy principles.
- New – Recycling Solutions Zone
Introducing the Recycling Solutions zone at T-PLAS 2023, where more than 15 companies share best practice applications and processes, representing diverse recyclate use in new plastic products and innovative approaches to dealing with plastic waste. This zone offers an ideal platform for visitors to connect with plastic
processors, buyers, and sellers of recycled resin, equipment suppliers and manufacturers, and other potential business partners. Among the line-up include Zerma (Thailand) with their energy-efficient slow-speed granulators, and iconic local brand - Mitr Pohl Biotech with their plant-based and compostable solutions targeted particularly at plastic converters. Other global players in the plastics recycling space who are also on-board, include: Austrian stalwart - Erema Engineering Recycling, Lindner Recyclingtech, NGR – Next Generation Recyclingmaschinen, Starlinger Recycling Technology, and from Germany – Gneuss and Sesotec - with their metal detectors and sorting systems, as well as from Taiwan – Polystar Machinery.
- Forum on Recycling Solutions & Sustainability
The Forum includes a line-up of topics covering advancements in recycling, including melt filtration techniques, post-industrial recycling to sustainable biomaterial compounds and solvent recovery. Engage with renowned companies such as Riekermann, Britas Recycling-Anlagen, Pack All Plastic-NGR, and other leading brand names as they pave the way for a more sustainable tomorrow.
- Seminar: Circular Economy and Sustainable Challenges for Southeast Asia | 20 September
A 1-day seminar delving into the Circular Economy and sustainability from diverse perspectives beyond just environmental considerations, the seminar explores strategic implementation strategies, economies of scale, ESG compliance, and more, aiming to achieve zero waste and 100% circularity without compromising overall sustainability. Geared towards professionals and stakeholders in the plastics and rubber sector, this event offers valuable insights into sustainable practices and solutions tailored to Southeast Asian markets. The panel sessions will feature speakers and industry experts from around the region representing both the public and private sectors. The topics include:
- Panel Discussion 1 Circularity & Sustainability - Can a company capitalise on the latest trends for profit yet be sustainable?
- Panel Discussion 2 | ESG is THE BUZZWORD in Southeast Asia. Strong government implementation, slow industry adoption. What do we need to do to change that?
- Panel Discussion 3 | Is Southeast Asia ready for the circular economy? Do we have the right policies in place to achieve ZERO carbon emissions?
This year, T-PLAS will take place alongside PACK PRINT INTERNATIONAL, CorruTec ASIA, wire and Tube Southeast Asia, GIFA, and METEC Southeast Asia, creating a one-top platform offering unparalleled opportunities for industry players across multiple sectors.
Start planning your visit now, and register online at www.tplas.com
