To date, only fragmentary data have been published on the Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East and African paint and coatings markets. A new Irfab Chemical Consultants study covering more than 25 countries fills in some of the gaps.

In 2003, according to the study, the powder coatings market in Central and Eastern Europe was more than 50,000 tons and valued at more than 160 million euros. About half of the total is locally manufactured by nearly 30 companies; the balance is imported.

Penetration of powder coatings varies by country, from 4 to 10%. With growth rates that vary by country and region from 7% and more per year, the powder coatings market in Central and Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa will grow to more than 200,000 tons by 2013, the report says.

The study, titled Powder Coatings Markets in Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa 2003-2013, reports imports/exports by individual country; shares of market participants; local producers and importers; sourcing of selected raw materials; trends in novel powder coating technologies, including MDF, UV, and thin-film technology; and a listing of traders/importers. Issues like shifts in powder coatings manufacturing from Western Europe to Eastern Europe, joint ventures and commercial agreements are examined in the study.

The study provides market information by country, application, chemistry and profiles of powder coating manufacturers.

For more information, call 32 2 657 3585, or go to www.irfab.com.