UFlex To Introduce Future-Ready Sustainable Tube Solutions At CMPL Expo 2026
FlexiTubes, the tube packaging division of UFlex, India’s largest multinational flexible packaging and solutions company will showcase its latest sustainable, high-performance tube packaging innovations at CMPL Expo 2026, one of India’s leading exhibitions for the tube and packaging industry. The event will be held from May 4 to May 6, 2026, at the Jio World Convention Centre, BKC, Mumbai.
At this year’s edition, UFlex will showcase its FlexiTubes portfolio—crafted at the intersection of aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability—to elevate how brands engage with consumers across beauty and personal care, oral care, food, pharmaceuticals, and home care.
Designed for strong shelf appeal, the collection features 360-degree high-definition printing, offering enhanced branding space and visual impact. An array of visual effects—including gloss, matte, metallic, holographic, and crystal-clear transparency—enables brands to craft distinctive identities. Innovations such as Metallika, Mattika, and Optika tubes, along with window-effect designs, seamlessly combine premium appeal with product visibility, elevating both design and storytelling.
Behind this visual sophistication lies engineered performance. UFlex’s multi-layer tube structures are designed to ensure product protection, durability, and compatibility across a wide range of formulations. Advanced barrier solutions, including high-performance coatings and alternative structures, help maintain product integrity, while design innovations such as virtually invisible side seams create a refined, uninterrupted finish.
FlexiTubes are available in a wide range of formats and diameters, offering the flexibility to meet diverse packaging needs while seamlessly integrating with existing manufacturing processes.
Building on this foundation, UFlex brings together aesthetics, sustainability, and security in its tube packaging solutions. The company integrates advanced anti-counterfeit features directly into the packaging, protecting brand authenticity while enhancing visual appeal.
A strong focus on sustainability continues to shape the portfolio, with UFlex advancing paper-based, recyclable, and PCR-based tube solutions, along with emerging biodegradable options—enabling brands to move toward more responsible packaging without compromising on design or performance.
More than a product showcase, UFlex’s presence at CMPL Expo signals its intent to lead conversations around the future of packaging—where design, material science, sustainability, and security converge. Visitors at Pavilion 3, Booth A144, will get a closer look at how these elements come together to create packaging solutions that are not just visually compelling, but strategically relevant.
India’s Tooling Sector Gains Global Recognition at DMI 2026
The 14th Die & Mould India Exhibition (DMI 2026), organized by the Tool & Gauge Manufacturers Association of India (TAGMA), concluded on a highly successful note at the Bombay Exhibition Centre. Held from April 21–24, 2026, the four-day event served as a definitive platform for the tooling industry, bringing together over 350 exhibitors and more than 35,000 visitors to showcase the latest advancements in manufacturing technology.
The exhibition highlighted the rapid momentum within India’s manufacturing ecosystem, featuring over 35 product launches and participation from more than 15 industry sectors, including automotive, aerospace & defence, electronics, and medical devices. The event’s global reach was further amplified by a vibrant Japan and Korea Pavilion and delegations from over 25 international companies, reinforcing DMI’s stature as a premier hub for innovation and business collaboration.
“This edition stands as our largest so far,” said Mr. Devaraya M. Sheregar, President, TAGMA India. “We are seeing positive momentum, with stronger order books and a clear shift towards advanced technologies, automation, and modern machining. Our toolmakers are increasingly serving both domestic and international markets, reflecting the growing competitiveness of our industry”.
The inauguration ceremony was marked by the presence of industry leaders, including Chief Guest Mr. Manoj Kolhatkar, MD and CEO of Tata AutoComp Systems Ltd., and Guests of Honour Mr. F. R. Singhvi, Joint Managing Director, Sansera Engineering Ltd. and President, Aerospace India Association; Mr. Vinamra Mishra, Joint Secretary, Ministry of MSME; and Mr. Hector U. Villanueva, Chairman, FADMA.
Concluding with a note of appreciation, D. Shanmugasundaram, Vice President of TAGMA India, said, “We sincerely thank all international delegates, exhibitors, partners, sponsors, and the TAGMA team for their support in making this event a success. Such global participation and continued collaboration will play a key role in strengthening the industry and shaping its future.”
The exhibition provided a comprehensive look at the complete value chain, ranging from CNC machining, additive manufacturing, and 3D printing to CAD/CAM/CAE software, precision cutting tools, and quality control systems. By uniting technology providers, raw material suppliers, and end-user industries, DMI 2026 once again cemented its role as a vital catalyst for India’s journey toward becoming a global manufacturing powerhouse.
Future-Ready Motor Technology from Leister for Industrial Performance
New brushless drive generation for Leister welding equipment
With the new MICROdrive, ECOdrive and POWERdrive motor families, Leister is taking a targeted technological step forward in industrial drive technology. These brushless motors are developed and manufactured entirely in-house. They are specifically designed for use in Leister welding equipment. They therefore form a key technological component of future generations of devices.
“The motor has a direct impact on the performance, control accuracy and lifespan of a welding device,” explains Pascal Bösch, Vice President R&D at Leister. “By developing our own motor technology, we can tailor it precisely to real-world applications – rather than compromising with off-the-shelf standard solutions.”
Enhanced Performance for Industrial Applications
Brushless drive technology enables more precise control of airflow, higher energy efficiency and maintenance-free continuous operation. For users, this means more stable processes, reproducible welding results, and higher system availability – especially in demanding plastic welding applications.
Three brushless motors, clear application focus
MICROdrive is the world’s smallest brushless blower motor in its class. Weighing just 68 grams and reaching speeds up to 40,000 rpm, it is particularly suited for compact industrial hand tools that require high power density, compact dimensions, and precision.
ECOdrive combines industrial performance and longevity with a sustainable material concept. The use of ferrite magnets without rare earths improves repairability and recyclability while maintaining high robustness for continuous use.
POWERdrive is designed for high-performance drive applications in industrial environments. The standardized digital interface also enables easy and precise integration into control and device systems while ensuring high process stability, even under demanding conditions.
“Our customers benefit directly: Process-reliable, more compact, more powerful devices, along with a significantly extended lifespan and lower operating and maintenance costs, have a noticeable impact on quality and cost-effectiveness,” says Bösch.
Already in use – platform strategy planned
The new generation of motors is already in use in devices such as the WELDPLAST 300 (Launch May 26) and WELDPLAST 600 and will be consistently integrated into our new product developments. Further integrations are planned for, among others, the new TRIAC, HOT JET, VARIANT, and VARIMAT products. In the coming years, Leister will use its unified and future-proof motor platform across its entire portfolio.
Swiss Made – developed for the future industrial reality
All motors are manufactured exclusively for Leister devices. No standard solutions, no compromises – just drive technology at the highest level, precisely tailored to industrial welding processes.
Why is this relevant for the industry?
Because the new motor technology combines sustainable material concepts with high process stability and performance – and thus measurably improves the process quality, reproducibility and service life of industrial welding applications.
PLASTASIA 2027: Shaping Tomorrow’s Plastics And Polymer Industry In India
The plastics and polymer industry is set to witness one of its biggest and most impactful business gatherings as the 9th Edition of PLASTASIA-2027 is scheduled to take place from 20th to 23rd May 2027 at the world-class Bharat Mandapam (Pragati Maidan), New Delhi. The four-day mega exhibition will be spread across Hall Nos. 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 & 12A, making PLASTASIA 2027 one of the largest trade exhibitions in the sector in the region.
PLASTASIA has firmly established itself as a premier platform for showcasing plastics processing machinery, polymer technology, automation, packaging solutions, sustainablerecycling innovations, raw materials and allied products. With India’s expanding demand for plastics across packaging, automotive, infrastructure, electronics, agriculture, and consumer goods, PLASTASIA-2027 aims to bring together leading manufacturers, technology providers, and buyers under one roof—enabling business growth, collaborations, and knowledge exchange.
PLASTASIA-2027 is expected to attract a strong participation from across India and international markets, including:
Industry leaders and major technology brands
Manufacturers, processors and converters
OEMs, importers and exporters
Dealers, distributors and channel partners
Institutional buyers, consultants and professionals
Government bodies, associations and trade delegations
The exhibition will highlight the latest innovations and solutions in:
The choice of Bharat Mandapam (Pragati Maidan) as the venue further strengthens the scale and global outlook of PLASTASIA-2027, offering modern infrastructure, accessibility, and world-class amenities to exhibitors and visitors.
Exhibitor bookings and partnership opportunities are now open. Companies and industry stakeholders are encouraged to reserve their spaces early for maximum visibility and business advantage.
Event Details
Exhibition: 9th Edition of PLASTASIA-2027 Dates: 20–23 May 2027 Venue: Bharat Mandapam (Pragati Maidan), New Delhi, India Halls: 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 & 12A
Husky Technologies Showcases Integrated Solutions For Performance And Safety At Chinaplas 2026
SHANGHAI, China – Husky Technologies, a pioneering technology provider enabling the delivery of essential needs to the global community, is highlighting more than 30 years of investment in China and Asia Pacific with a significant presence at Chinaplas 2026. The company is exhibiting from April 21-24 in Hall 4.1, Booth C24.
“Our longstanding presence in this region has enabled us to closely understand the day-to-day challenges and priorities of local food, beverage, consumer packaging, and medical device producers,” said Robert Domodossola, Husky’s President and CEO. “Chinaplas is an important opportunity for us to engage directly with customers, both existing and prospective, to listen, collaborate, and ensure our solutions are aligned with their goals as they compete in one of the world’s fastest-growing packaging markets.”
Husky first established a regional presence in China in 2004 with the opening of its Shanghai Technical Center, serving as the company’s regional headquarters. Over the years, Husky has built an extensive infrastructure in China and the Asia Pacific region to deliver responsive service and support by local experts. Regional manufacturing centers are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and equipment, enabling machines and tooling to be produced with industry-leading quality standards.
Demonstration of integrated system with machine, hot runner, and mold controller
Customer collaboration is the foundation of Husky’s integrated approach to high performance packaging molding. Running live at the show is a 16-cavity Hylectric 400-tonne injection molding system, with Ultra Helix hot runner system, and Altanium6 series mold controller, producing a 100-gram polypropylene yogurt cup at a 3.9-second cycle time.
The system is designed so machine, hot runner, and mold controller operate seamlessly together, ensuring precise melt stream management from injection through filling to unlock maximum performance. By functioning as a single, fully optimized platform, these integrated components enable increased throughput, consistent part quality, minimized scrap, and reliable, safe operation, ultimately reducing both part and operating costs.
Solutions serving food, beverage, medical, and consumer goods packaging markets
In addition to the live system demonstration, Husky is showcasing a broad portfolio of technologies, solutions, and services, including:
• HyPET6e and HyPET NX6 PET preform molding systems for various applications and production volumes with advanced recycled PET processing capability to support the country’s intensive packaging sustainability mandates
• Sustainable lightweight, tethered, and HyCAP SecuRE+ PET closure solution supporting mono-material package design
• Advantage+Elite real-time proactive monitoring for optimized overall equipment effectiveness and enabling reduced conversion costs
• Regional introduction of new auxiliary Altanium MultiShot technology, a fully integrated multi-material molding solution
• High-precision hot runner technologies powering performance across industries
• New 6 Series of Altanium mold controllers – Neo6, Delta6, and Matrix6, enabling faster startups, superior resin protection, and optimized energy use
• Industry-leading medical solutions expanding possibilities across parenteral, diagnostics, and laboratory markets
• Advisory services, including operational assessment and factory planning to optimize plant layout, workflow efficiency, and long-term production scalability
“Across Asia Pacific, our customers are under increasing pressure to move faster and more efficiently while meeting sustainability goals, and to achieve this they’re looking for a true partner, not just an equipment supplier,” said Calvin Pang, Husky’s Vice President Sales, North Asia. “By serving this region for more than three decades we’re able to deliver tailored solutions that meet our customers’ realities, enabling sustainability, performance, value, and safety, capabilities reflected in the technology we’re showcasing at Chinaplas.”
Husky experts will be available for the duration of the show at Hall 4.1, Booth C24. For more information on Husky Technologies visit husky.co or book a meeting during the Chinaplas 2026 show.
Next-Level Tooling Innovation to Lead DMI 2026 Exhibition
DMI 2026: Mumbai Opportunity Die & Mould India International Exhibition 2026 marks the beginning of four days of innovation, dialogue, and discovery. As exhibitors present next-gen solutions and visitors engage with new ideas, the event reinforces its role as a growth catalyst in India’s tooling industry.
Setting the stage for innovation and industry collaboration, Die & Mould India International Exhibition 2026 (DMI 2026) commenced at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, Goregaon, Mumbai, on April 21,2026. Organised by the Tool & Gauge Manufacturers Association of India (TAGMA), DMI 2026 promises to showcase various technological developments for the booming die and mould industry. It highlights the opportunities and challenges and provides a platform for toolmakers to learn from the user industry.
The four-day event has brought together leading toolmakers, technology providers, and user industries to highlight advancements in die and mould technology, CNC machining, automation, and additive manufacturing, all aimed at strengthening the ‘Make in India’ initiative.
The exhibition’s inauguration ceremony was graced by Mr. Manoj Kolhatkar, MD and CEO, Tata AutoComp Systems Ltd., who was the event’s Chief Guest. Mr. F. R. Singhvi, Joint Managing Director, Sanmar Engineering Ltd. and President, Aerospace India Association; Mr. Vinamra Mishra, Joint Secretary, Ministry of MSME, Government of India; and Mr. Hector D. Villanueva, Chairman, FADMA, were the Guests of Honour. Mr. Devaraya M. Sheregar, President, TAGMA India, and Mr. D. Shanmugam, Vice President, TAGMA India, were also present alongside other dignitaries. The ceremonial lighting of the lamp by the esteemed guests marked the auspicious beginning of the exhibition.
Addressing the Audience
Extending a warm welcome to everyone present at the inauguration ceremony, Mr. Sheregar said, “This year’s Die & Mould India is our largest edition so far. We have over 350 exhibitors participating across three halls; we are expecting 35,000+ visitors over the next three days. Die & Mould India is not just an exhibition. It is a platform where the entire ecosystem comes together to showcase capabilities, exchange ideas, and build partnerships that will shape the future of our industry.”
Talking about the opportunities in the tooling industry, Mr. Sheregar added, “Over the past year, the industry has experienced a positive momentum. Many toolmakers have witnessed robust business growth, improved order books, and better capacity utilisation. At the same time, we are seeing increased investments in advanced technologies, automation, and modern machining capabilities. Many Indian toolmakers are now not only serving domestic customers but are also exporting to global markets. There is also a strong focus on skill development, which is very important for the future of our industry.”
Highlighting the importance of skill development, Mr. Singhvi said, “The government expects the industry to do well, and industry expects the government to support it. Over the last 40 years, many have perished, some have remained small, but many of us have grown in the same environment. The difference lies in the people who run the industry. In my 30-year journey, skill development has been the single most impactful focus. Salaries have risen from INR 18,000 to INR 35,000, but is that enough? Growth depends on people. Ten employees can take you so far, a hundred can take you ten times further, five hundred can take you a hundred times further. Retaining and nurturing employees is the real growth engine.”
Mr. Singhvi added, “We fail to give employees an extra INR 3,000–5,000 or a clear roadmap for their future. That’s how we lose our best people. Skill is the foundation. We face a paradox: millions of young people struggle for jobs, while industries struggle to fulfil orders due to a lack of skilled manpower. Train them, retain them, and in 2–3 years, they will become experts who drive your business forward.”
“The government will support MSMEs, but don’t wait for them to start. If India wants to lead in manufacturing, we must first lead in tooling. That is the foundation of modern industry,” Mr. Singhvi concluded.
Speaking about the contributions of MSMEs, Mr. Mishra noted, “MSMEs have made immense contributions to the country’s economic growth, whether it is exports, where we contribute 45%, or manufacturing GVO, where our share is 37%. The MSME ecosystem today employs close to 8.1 crore people. Clearly, these are the growth drivers. But within this, the tooling industry is the precision gear that drives the entire ecosystem.”
Mr. Mishra added, “The government has set its goal on supporting the manufacturing ecosystem. We need to ideate together and let the government know what works. For example, in the innovation sector, India rose from around 80–90th in the Global Innovation Index to the early 30s within a decade.
This was possible because of investments in R&D and supportive frameworks. Similarly, manufacturing can be strengthened with the right steps. Focusing on the importance of innovation, Mr. Villanueva said, ‘Die & Mould India has established itself as a premium platform for motivation, innovation, and excellence in the tooling and die industry… We are witnessing a transformative moment in manufacturing. Smart manufacturing, CNC technologies, additive manufacturing, and integrated automation are redefining how industry operates. These innovations are enhancing productivity and precision while enabling more sustainable and efficient production systems. I commend TAGMA India for its unwavering commitment to advancing the tooling industry and fostering global competitiveness across sectors like automotive, aerospace, consumers goods, and packaging.”
The opportunities for the tooling industry are expanding. Highlighting the opportunities in the auto industry, Mr. Kolhatkar said, “The Indian economy today is among the brightest in the world, and the auto industry has had its best year ever. In 2025–26, India recorded production of 5.5 million passenger cars, nearly 27 million two-wheelers, and over a million each of commercial vehicles, tractors, and three-wheelers. Auto components, as an industry, crossed $90 billion, and for the first time, exports slightly exceeded imports—showing how far we have matured. Yet, in the tool and die fraternity, we still import about 35%. Every new car model requires tooling investments of around INR 4,000 crore in India, and billions overseas. While frugal engineering helps us keep costs lower, the scope for growth in tooling remains immense.”
Mr. Shanmugasundaram then concluded the ceremony with a Vote of Thanks. He said, “As we inaugurate Die & Mould India 2026, I would like to share a broader perspective on our industry—where we stand today and where we are headed. This is not just the inauguration of an exhibition; it is a reflection of where we have come from in the last 10 years, and where we are going in the next 10.”
He also extended a warm welcome to members of the Federation of Asian Die and Mould Associations (FADMA). “We are honoured to host around 20 delegates from Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, South Korea, and Thailand. It is a matter of pride that the FADMA Annual General Meeting is being hosted in India this year, immediately following this exhibition. Your presence strengthens global collaboration, and we truly value this association. I would like to offer a special thanks to all exhibitors, partners, sponsors, and the TAGMA team for creating this outstanding platform,” he said.
DMI: Powering India’s Tooling Future
India introduced the Die & Mould India Exhibition series in 1998 to encourage and strengthen the die and mould fraternity. Over the years, the exhibition has grown into India’s largest platform for the tooling industry. It covers a wide spectrum of products and services, including dies and moulds, press tools, mould bases, hot runner systems, tool steel, heat treatment, gauges, CAD/CAM solutions, additive manufacturing, rapid prototyping, CNC machining centers, EDM, moulding and die-casting machines, polishing equipment, cutting tools, measuring systems, and related accessories. The exhibition provides participants with opportunities to explore new business potential, gain insights into industry challenges, witness live demonstrations, and stay updated with global innovations. The show also serves as a meeting ground for the tooling fraternity.
The 2024 edition of Die & Mould India International Exhibition was a major success. The event featured 300+ exhibitors from 15+ countries and drew more than 38,000 visitors across 15 sectors. Its highlights included 35+ product launches, strong participation in the B2B Pavilion, an engaging Korea Pavilion, and delegations from more than 25 companies. The scale and response reaffirmed the exhibition’s importance as a global hub for tooling excellence and its role in shaping the future of India’s die and mould industry.
Syensqo has launched CYASORB CYXTRA V9800 and V9100, a new stabilizer series that enables automotive manufacturers and compounders to expand the use of translucent polypropylene (PP) in both interior and exterior applications, combining modern design aesthetics with long-term durability.
As automotive design increasingly incorporates light, transparency and refined surface effects, materials such as translucent PP offer new creative possibilities. However, their sensitivity to UV exposure and heat has historically limited their use in demanding environments. Syensqo’s new CYASORB CYXTRA address these challenges, helping materials maintain clarity, color and performance over time.
The CYASORB CYXTRA series provides targeted protection for these specific needs:
CYASORB CYXTRA V9800: Optimized for exterior applications, such as bumpers, requiring higher UV stabilization.
Discoloration and yellowing control: delivers minimal yellowing under light and heat exposure and provides a minimal contribution to the yellowness index.
Light transmittance retention: ensures long-term retention of light transmittance and low haze throughout the service life.
Consistent aesthetics: provides excellent gloss retention and prevents blooming issues under light and heat exposure.
Extended lifespan: protects mechanical properties and aesthetics, leading to visually appealing products that retain quality throughout their lifecycle. “As automotive design continues to evolve, material performance must keep pace. With our latest CYASORB CYXTRA solutions, we are enabling our customers to confidently expand the use of translucent polypropylene in demanding automotive applications,” said Chen Ning, Vice President, Polymer Additives at Syensqo. “This launch reflects our commitment to delivering high-value innovations that help OEMs achieve both durability and distinctive design.”
Syensqo will exhibit at CHINAPLAS 2026. Come visit and talk to our experts at Hall 7.2, C37.
CYASORB and CYXTRA are registered trademarks of Syensqo.
Veolia Hoskote Marks Silver Jubilee Of Growth And Global Innovation
25 years of innovation at Hoskote: Veolia celebrates a quarter century of manufacturing, technology development and global exports from its flagship plant near Bangalore, now a world-class hub for membrane manufacturing, specialty chemicals and advanced water technologies, exporting to more than 20 countries and supported by a Technology Center with over 100 patents.
A new benchmark for customer engagement: Inauguration of the Veolia Customer Experience Center, a hub for collaboration, digital innovation and co-creation with customers across South Asia.
Committed to a greener future: Launch of a solar panel installation at Hoskote, reflecting Veolia’s GreenUp strategy and its mission to decarbonize its own operations.
Veolia celebrated a landmark moment in its India journey on 1st April with the inauguration of its new Customer Experience Center at the company’s Hoskote plant in Bangalore, a world-class hub for membrane manufacturing, specialty chemicals and advanced water technologies. The event also marked the 25th anniversary of the Hoskote manufacturing and technology facility and the launch of a solar panel decarbonization initiative — underscoring Veolia’s long-term commitment to India as a global hub for water technology, innovation, and sustainable operations.
Anne Le Guennec, CEO of Veolia’s water technologies activities, said: “India holds a unique place in Veolia’s global strategy, not only as a dynamic market, but as a true center of excellence for engineering, digital innovation and manufacturing. Today’s milestones at Hoskote reflect 25 years of dedication, talent and ambition, in line with our GreenUp strategic program. Water is at the heart of environmental security, and as India faces growing water challenges, we are committed to delivering the technologies and solutions that will help cities and industries become more resilient, more efficient and more sustainable.”
The Hoskote plant: a quarter century of innovation
Established in 2001, the Hoskote plant has evolved into a world-class hub for membrane manufacturing, specialty chemicals and technology development, exporting to more than 20 countries. Its co-located Technology Center stands as a unique asset for global innovation, having generated over 100 patents. Located in a region renowned for its strong engineering expertise and talent pool, the site is driven by a highly skilled team of engineers and scientists developing innovative water solutions that advance environmental security for communities and industries worldwide.
As part of Veolia’s GreenUp strategy and its broader commitment to ecological transformation, the Hoskote plant has also inaugurated a new solar panel installation, marking a significant step in its decarbonization journey. The installation is expected to avoid more than 600 tonnes of CO2 equivalent per year, a tangible demonstration of Veolia’s determination to reduce the carbon footprint of its own operations while guiding customers towards the same goal: transforming sustainability pledges into measurable results.
Inauguration of the Veolia Customer Experience Center
The newly inaugurated Customer Experience Center at Hoskote is designed to bring Veolia’s technological capabilities, innovations and customer solutions to life in an immersive, interactive environment. It will serve as a hub for collaboration, knowledge exchange and joint innovation with customers across South Asia and beyond.
The center brings together an interactive technology showcase spotlighting Veolia’s smart water solutions with live demonstrations of remote monitoring, data analytics and digital systems. Visitors can engage directly with industry experts, explore service and support capabilities — from onsite engineering to remote inspection, auditing and operator training — and experience firsthand the innovations that are shaping the future of water management. A dedicated training facility accommodating up to 50 participants further cements the center’s role as a place for learning and capability-building.
Veolia in India: a track record of excellence in water technologies
As the largest industrial water company in South Asia, Veolia has delivered more than 500 projects for municipalities and industries across the region, spanning drinking water, sewage treatment and zero liquid discharge (ZLD). Recent municipal contracts in Mumbai — including the Bandra wastewater treatment project, one of India’s largest greenfield sewage treatment plants using advanced membrane bioreactor technology, and the Bhandup drinking water plant upgrade integrating smart clarifier technology and real-time monitoring — further demonstrate Veolia’s growing footprint in India’s urban water infrastructure.
Irshaad Hakim, Executive Vice President of Veolia’s water technologies activities in Asia Pacific, said: “South Asia faces a pivotal moment in its pursuit of water security. The magnitude of the challenge, from declining groundwater to undertreated municipal wastewater, demands bold, scalable solutions. Veolia’s track record in India proves that we have both the expertise and commitment to make a lasting difference. Our goal is clear: to deliver performance and sustainability while supporting safe, healthy communities across the region.”
Interpack 2026 Gives Women In Packaging A Global Stage
With an inspiring keynote from Tetra Pak to kick things off, a high-calibre panel discussion and interactive networking sessions, Women in Packaging is entering its next round at interpack 2026 – and is more powerful, connected and inspiring than ever before.
With “Women in Packaging”, interpack 2026 is once again sending a strong signal for female empowerment, diversity and the future of women’s careers in the industry. The format is aimed specifically at women of all career levels – from ambitious career starters to experienced experts, managers and founders. The focus is on inspiration, eye-level dialogue and specific impetus for the individual career path.
On 11 May 2026, participants can look forward to a programme at the Congress Center Düsseldorf that connects and sets things in motion: a keynote speech will provide strong content-related impetus, an international panel discussion will highlight different career paths and perspectives, and topic-driven networking rounds will create space for genuine exchange, new contacts and mutual support.
Thomas Dohse, Director of interpack, says: “Women in Packaging was still an exception when it premiered in 2023 – today, dialogue on these topics is an integral part of the industry. This exchange is becoming increasingly important, especially in the context of qualified personnel and future skills. interpack introduces a particular international dimension in this respect: participants from all over the world meet speakers from Europe, the USA, South America and Australia and combine different perspectives.”
Caroline Babendererde, Head of Sustainability Mid Europe at Tetra Pak
Keynote: impetus for sustainability and diversity
This is the also the vision of Caroline Babendererde, Head of Sustainability Mid Europe at Tetra Pak. With around 30 years of experience in environmental and sustainability management, including more than two decades in the packaging industry, she is one of the major proponents of sustainable packaging solutions in Europe. In addition to her professional activities, she is a guest lecturer on sustainable packaging and cross-discipline sustainability topics at universities. Her perspective demonstrates how closely linked topics such as sustainability, recruiting young talent and the visibility of career paths are. “Packaging is a crucial component of food safety,” says Caroline Babendererde. “We need to demonstrate much more clearly that it protects products, ensures quality and prevents food losses. In doing so, we will be making a direct contribution to security of supply and climate protection. We want to actively strengthen this awareness – among young people, career starters and, of course, not only among women, because those who recognise our industry’s responsibility and innovative strength also see its strong future opportunities.”
“When it comes to diversity, I hope that equity and diversity will soon be a matter of course. We are making progress, but we still have work to do, especially in the apprenticeship and education sector.”
Panel: perspectives on careers, change and the future of the industry
The panel will bring together representatives from industry, international organisations and science, thus uniting different perspectives on the development of the processing and packaging industry – shaped by participants’ personal experiences, international career paths and individual focuses.
Jill Evanko, CEO of Duravant
Jill Evanko, CEO of Duravant, will provide insights from the viewpoint of a top manager who has led international industrial companies through transformation and growth.who has led international industrial companies through transformation and growth.
Dr Kerstin van Wijk, Global Head of Innovation Packaging Adhesives at Henkel
Dr Kerstin van Wijk, Global Head of Innovation Packaging Adhesives at Henkel, represents industrial practice, combining technological innovation with concrete applications along the value chain.
Luciana Pellegrino, President of the World Packaging Organisation, has enjoyed an exemplary international career in the packaging industry. As the first woman to head the global industry association, she brings along many years of experience in global cooperation between organisations.
Prof. Dr Julia Hartmann from EBS University
Prof. Dr Julia Hartmann from EBS University combines experience from research, consulting and supervisory bodies and will highlight how sustainable transformation can be strategically anchored in companies.
Nerida Kelton, Vice President Sustainability & Save Food at the World Packaging Organisation and Executive Director
The panel will be moderated by Nerida Kelton, Vice President Sustainability & Save Food at the World Packaging Organisation and Executive Director, AIP: “The first Women in Packaging event at interpack 2023 showed us that events like this are desired by the global industry. What makes it so special are the open discussions, the networking, the opportunity to be inspired by women who have already travelled this path, and the occasion for participants to ask questions, discuss challenges and learn from one another. For me, it’s about meeting new people, hearing their stories and strengthening my own global network of inspiring women in the packaging industry that I can draw on in the future.”
Dr Afsaneh Nabifar from BASF
Topic Hubs: exchange that makes connections
New at Women in Packaging are the “Topic Hubs”, topic-driven networking rounds on Career Pathways & Mentorship, Community Building & Peer Networks, Personal Branding & Visibility, Balancing Work & Life and Future Generation & Skills. They will be accompanied by Topic Ambassadors who will structure and deepen the dialogue.
Shannon Doherty-Andall from the Australian Beverages Council
Shannon Doherty-Andall, Chair of Sustainability Working Group, International Fruit and Vegetable Juice Association, is representative of the interface between sustainability, regulation and industrial implementation. Dr Afsaneh Nabifar from BASF combines scientific expertise with international transformation work along the value chain.
Dr Kathrin Gimpel, CHRO at the renowned brand manufacturer Teekanne
Dr Kathrin Gimpel, CHRO at the renowned brand manufacturer Teekanne, will introduce the perspective of leadership, organisation and corporate culture.
Monica Battistella, Sustainability Manager at Taghleef Industries
Monica Battistella, Sustainability Manager at Taghleef Industries, contributes her experience in circular economy and regulatory topics as well as her work in international initiatives.
Kaie Kaas-Ojavere, CEO und Co-Gründerin des Start-ups KIUD
And Kaie Kaas-Ojavere, CEO and co-founder of the start-up KIUD, represents the topic of entrepreneurial innovation and new approaches in the field of circular packaging solutions.
The Topic Hubs create a practical framework in which experiences can be shared, challenges discussed and new contacts forged.
Event details
Date: Monday, 11 May 2026
Time: 10:30 am
Location: Congress Centre Düsseldorf, 2nd Floor, Room 26, 27, 28
The programme will be hosted by Emily Whigham, journalist and presenter.
Free registration is now open via the following link, places are limited:
PLAST 2026 Italy: Innovation and Excellence in Plastics & Rubber Exhibition
A Global Meeting Point for Plastics Innovation where Global Industry Leaders, Advanced Technologies and Sustainability Innovations Set the Stage for Europe’s Second-Largest Plastics & Rubber Trade Fair
Plast 2026 Media Tour attended by Mr. Ginu Joseph, Editor in Chief of Modern Plastics India and Modern Plastics TV and covered the entire press tour and happy to share the information;
In June 2026, the global plastics and rubber industry will once again gather in Milan, Italy, for PLAST 2026, one of the most influential trade fairs in the sector. Widely recognized as Europe’s second-largest plastics and rubber industry exhibition after the K-Show in Germany, PLAST continues its long-standing tradition as a hub for innovation, technology exchange, and international business networking.
Organized by Promaplast, a company fully owned by Amaplast, the Italian association of plastics and rubber machinery manufacturers, the exhibition traces its origins back to 1964. Over the decades, it has grown into a strategic platform connecting manufacturers, suppliers, technology developers, and buyers from across the world.
PLAST has evolved into a major global meeting point for manufacturers, technology providers, and buyers across the plastics and rubber value chain. Positioned at the center of Europe, the event attracts participants from Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and Latin America, creating a unique bridge between markets and technologies.
Speaking at the official international press presentation, Mr. Mario Maggiani, President of Amaplast, emphasized the global importance of the upcoming event.
The association currently represents around 170 companies, which collectively play a major role in advancing Italian manufacturing technology globally. Amaplast works closely with the Italian Trade Agency (ITA) to promote Italian innovations through trade fairs, conferences, and global industry events.
Mario Maggiani, President, Amaplast and CEO of Promaplast
“PLAST has always been a bridge between markets and cultures. From Europe to Asia, from Africa to the Americas, the exhibition connects the world of plastics processing technologies.
Milan’s central location in Europe and Italy’s strong industrial heritage makes PLAST an ideal platform for showcasing advanced manufacturing solutions, sustainable technologies, and future materials.
Italian Plastics Machinery Industry: A Dynamic but Challenging Market
During the press conference, Gabriele Caccia, Vice-President of Amaplast, offered a comprehensive overview of the current state of the Italian plastics and rubber machinery sector.
Amaplast currently represents around 170 companies that manufacture machinery, molds, and equipment for plastics and rubber processing industries. Italian manufacturers are globally recognized for their engineering excellence, flexibility, and technological innovation.
However, the global market environment has become increasingly complex.
Geopolitical developments, trade restrictions, and tariffs—particularly in the North American market—have created uncertainty for international trade and investment.
Gabriele Caccia, Vice-President, Amaplast
“The market today is extremely dynamic. Companies are cautious about investing in new technologies because global economic signals change almost daily.” Despite these challenges, the Italian industry continues to demonstrate remarkable adaptability, responding quickly to changing market conditions and evolving technological demands.
Export Trends and Global Market Performance
The Italian plastics machinery industry is highly export-driven, with 70–80% of production destined for international markets.
According to preliminary data from the Amaplast Research Centre, exports from January to September 2025 declined by approximately 6%, with a projected 5% decline for the full year.
This decrease follows a particularly strong export performance in 2024, which had set a high benchmark for the sector.
Export Distribution by Region (Jan–Sept 2025)
Europe: 52.4% share (–7%)
North America: 16.2% share (–13%)
Asia & Oceania: 19.6% share (+6.7%)
Central & South America: 6.1% share (–12%)
Africa: 5.7% share (–20.5%)
While many regions experienced declines, Asia has emerged as one of the strongest growth markets for European machinery manufacturers.
Notable country performances include:
China: +22% growth
India: +53% growth
Argentina: +61% growth
Chile: +75% growth
Egypt: +19% growth
Nigeria: +31%
Meanwhile, several European markets showed slower activity:
Germany: –10%
France: –16%
Turkey: –42%
Despite these fluctuations, industry leaders remain optimistic about long-term global demand for advanced plastics processing technologies.
India: A Strategic Growth Market for the Industry
One of the most promising markets for European machinery manufacturers is India, which continues to show strong industrial growth. According to industry projections, India’s population could grow from 1.4 billion to nearly 1.8 billion in the next two decades, dramatically increasing demand for packaged goods, pharmaceuticals, consumer products, and infrastructure. All of these sectors rely heavily on plastics processing technologies. Recent progress toward trade cooperation between the European Union and India, including discussions on reducing import duties, could further strengthen industrial partnerships between the two regions. We have noted that during his recent visit to India, industry leaders expressed strong optimism about long-term market expansion.
Sustainability, Recycling and the PPWR Regulation
Sustainability is another key topic shaping the future of the plastics industry. The European Union’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR)—expected to be fully implemented by 2030—will require major changes in plastics production, recycling, and material design.
Giampiero Zazzaro
Manufacturers are already investing heavily in:
Advanced recycling technologies
Energy-efficient production systems
Sustainable materials and circular economy solutions
“Plastics are essential to modern life—from healthcare to food safety. The future lies in smarter materials, better recycling systems, and innovative technologies.”
Alessio Finio, Exhibition Manager of PLAST 2026, presented details about the upcoming 2026 edition and highlighted the success of the previous event.
PLAST 2023 Highlights
1,300 exhibitors
60,000 m² net exhibition space
6 exhibition halls
38,000 visitors
26% international attendance
Visitors from over 100 countries
For PLAST 2026, organizers aim to exceed these numbers by expanding international participation and introducing new digital marketing strategies targeting specific industrial sectors.
“Our goal is to strengthen PLAST’s international dimension and attract qualified buyers from all major global markets.”
A New Exhibition Format: MATEC – Next Materials & Technologies
PLAST 2026 will take place under the broader technology umbrella “MATEC – Next Materials and Technologies.”
Two complementary exhibitions will be held simultaneously:
Xylexpo – dedicated to wood processing technologies
Composites Future – a new conference exhibition focused on composite materials
This integrated format is designed to encourage cross-industry collaboration, attracting professionals from sectors such as:
Aerospace
Automotive
Furniture manufacturing
Defense
Advanced materials
Technology Zones and Thematic Areas The exhibition will occupy six major pavilions at Fiera Milano, each focusing on different segments of the plastics industry.
Pavilion Layout
Pavilions 9 & 11: Raw materials, measurement technologies, converters
Beyond the exhibition floor, PLAST 2026 will feature a comprehensive conference and knowledge-sharing program addressing the most important topics in the industry.
Packaging accounts for approximately 40% of plastics machinery production, making it one of the most important sectors represented at the show.
Circular Economy and Recycling
Discussions will involve major Italian organizations addressing recycling technologies and sustainable materials.
Artificial Intelligence in Plastics Manufacturing
A special conference in partnership with the MADE Competence Center Industry 4.0 will explore how AI, automation, and digital manufacturing are transforming plastics processing.
Looking Ahead to PLAST 2026
As the plastics industry navigates economic uncertainties, technological change, and sustainability challenges, PLAST 2026 will serve as a global platform for collaboration, innovation, and business growth.
With strong participation expected from Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas, the exhibition is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of plastics manufacturing.
“PLAST is not just an exhibition—it is a meeting point for ideas, technologies, and the future of the plastics industry.” — Mario Maggiani
From advanced machinery to circular economy solutions, PLAST 2026 in Milan will showcase how the industry continues to evolve and innovate in a rapidly changing world.
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Looking Ahead to PLAST 2026