Braving torrential downpours that threatened to disrupt proceedings, the 30th edition of the Middle East Coatings Show (MECS) 2024 carried on undeterred at the Dubai World Trade Centre from April 16-18. Among the exhibitors was H.A.K Industrial Chemicals, a division of the esteemed The Kanoo Group, unveiling its latest innovations in paint and coatings technology.
For three decades, MECS has served as a pivotal platform connecting industry professionals across the Middle East and North Africa. This year's event brought together over 350 exhibiting brands from 24 nations, representing the entire coatings value chain – from raw material suppliers to equipment manufacturers. The show floor buzzed with manufacturers, distributors, buyers, and technical experts exploring new products, exchanging ideas, and fostering vital business connections.
The UAE's coatings market has seen remarkable growth, expanding from $747.38 million in 2022 to $766.33 million in 2023, a 2.67% increase according to Mordor Intelligence. This upswing has attracted significant investments, exemplified by Jotun's $41 million facility inauguration in Dubai Science Park last January.
Krish Venkatesan, General Manager of H.A.K Industrial Chemicals, affirmed, "Surging construction activities across the UAE and neighboring countries are fueling demand for premium paints and coatings. The construction boom necessitates differentiated, innovative, and sustainable solutions."
H.A.K Industrial Chemicals showcased an extensive range of products from its 13 global principals, catering to diverse coating applications. Notable exhibitors included Arabian Zinc Oxide Factory's high-purity zinc oxide grades, Cabot's fumed silica and carbon black offerings, Potters' hollow glass microspheres for paints and coatings, and Raichem's dibenzoyl peroxide hardeners.
The MENA region is experiencing robust demand across architectural, decorative, wood, and industrial coatings segments, with epoxy and polyurethane coatings leading the charge in the UAE's fast-growing industrial sector.
Venkatesan stated, "This year, we are actively seeking new suppliers in paints, coatings, and construction chemicals. For our existing principals, we are continually exploring ways to expand our geographical reach beyond the UAE and Oman while maintaining our brand image as a regional market leader."
Despite the inclement weather, the three-day exhibition attracted customers from the GCC, Middle East, Africa, and the Indian subcontinent. "More than the quantity, it was the quality of visitors that impressed us, leading to insightful technical discussions and potential new business opportunities," remarked Venkatesan.
He added, "We maintain stock of most of our products in the UAE, supplying customers across the UAE, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, Jordan, and Pakistan. MECS is an unparalleled platform to bolster our market presence, drive sales, generate leads, and network with industry pioneers, manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, and key decision-makers."
Venkatesan concluded,
"We are delighted to reconnect with our customers and partners at MECS
2024, introducing our latest innovations designed to overcome current industry
challenges. Our presence reaffirms our commitment to advancing paint technology
while enhancing operational efficiency and sustainability across the
board."
