ASEAN’s Most Comprehensive Exhibition on Machinery, Technology, Chemicals, and Raw Materials for Plastics Manufacturing
The plastics industry has been a part of Thailand's manufacturing sector for a long time. The Plastics Institute is one of the agencies established to promote the development of the plastics industry through collaboration with the government, the academic and the private sector. The President of Plastics Institute of Thailand Mr. Veera Kwanloetchit proposes that Thai entrepreneurs need to quickly transform themselves to stay competitive and be able to enjoy new opportunities in the new normal.
“Currently, the largest proportion of plastic products manufactured both in Thailand and the global market is packaging which constitutes about 40%, while medical equipment which has a much smaller percentage is on the rise. The data from 2018 shows that medical equipment made from plastics accounted for 1% of the market and then it grew significantly to 1.5% in 2019.
Raw materials used in plastics production can be divided into two main categories: special grade plastics and plastics for general production. Therefore, manufacturers should consider what products they want to produce, and what kind of resins they need to use. After that, they will know whether or not to invest in new machinery. All in all, they will also need to study the market-backed data so the products they manufacture meet consumers’ need and will be able to sell.”
"As popularity of electric vehicles grows, the use of batteries will gradually replace fossil fuel. The demand for special grade plastic parts will subsequently increase because the chassis and many important auto parts need to be lighter. However, these parts still need to be resistant to heat, chemical corrosion and electric charge. Only the high-performance materials are able to fulfill these requirements.
Medical equipment which is also growing is another segment that needs special grade of plastics. At the moment, Thai manufacturers are able to produce both EV parts and medical equipment, but what is more important is to acquire international standards because then we can export these products worldwide and drive Thailand’s new S-curve industries to move forward.”
"Plastics were invented to replace natural materials. Although the green movement has made plastics seem like a villain, the underlying problem lies in the proper waste management. For example, re-using or recycling. If the plastics products have value, consumers will acknowledge and regard them as something cost-worthy and use them fully. This is why manufacturers need to understand consumer demands to manufacture the products they would buy. For example, the market for packaging grew due to COVID-19, so manufacturers should consider where their expertise lies to be able to come up with new product ideas with added value.”
"Trade exhibitions such as InterPlas Thailand helps promote the engagement of industrialists, especially from the Thai plastics industry. By involving a wide range of participants, the show will provide a platform where manufacturers can find a one-stop center and gain knowhow as well as advice directly from technology providers. This will help them learn about the strategies for transforming their businesses to grow along with the market.”
“InterPlas Thailand” is open to trade visitors only. Please dress in business attire. Those wearing shorts and/or sandals and minors under the age of 15 will not be permitted into the exhibition hall. The organizer reserves the right to refuse admission to anyone without cause or explanation.