Growing in the Middle East: Quemtex launches powder plant

The production capacity of the plant will be expanded in two phases: the initial capacity of 5,000 tons annually will be doubled to 10,000 tons in the second phase. The company has invested EUR 15.2 million in the project, which also includes a new R&D center. This research hub is poised to become one of the top three powder coating research facilities in the region. The company also operates a factory in Kazakhstan and employs over 300 team members.

We spoke to Alexandr Glukhov, CEO and Zhandos Temirgali, Chairman of the Board of Directors, about the move and the local and regional powder coatings market.

Could you share more details about the timeline for completing the second stage of production capacity expansion?

Zhandos Temirgali: Stage 2 of our UAE project is set to be launched in 2026. It will increase our annual production capacities from the current 5,000 tons to over 10,000 tons. The increased output will allow us to expand the geography of our exports, covering more destinations across the European Union and North America.  

Why did you choose Umm Al Quwain as the location for the new facility?

Alexandr Glukhov: Strategically, we have chosen the United Arab Emirates because it is, in fact, a globally recognised industrial and financial hub in the MENA region. At the project development stage, the authorities of Umm Al Quwain provided us with favorable conditions in terms of infrastructure and tax regime, together with a high level of corporate services. We were able to complete the entire project and construction within a short period of time, launching Stage 1 in July 2024. 

What will the new facility be comprised of?

Glukhov: The expanded facility will have twice as many production capacities, together with larger warehouse spaces. Importantly, we will also nurture the R&D potential of our Head Lab, which will have more equipment and staff. Our product is focused on innovation and first-class service, which is why the development of our research capabilities is of prime importance. 

What do you see as the biggest potentials and challenges within the powder coatings sector?

Temirgali: We see huge potential in the powder coatings industry worldwide. This is driven by a number of factors, including increased industrial production, particularly in “smart” industries, and a conscious shift by product manufacturers toward more environmentally friendly production methods and ingredients where powder coatings don’t have a viable alternative. The new regulations encourage using sustainable products in construction and metalwork finish as a whole. Therefore, the world market will continue to grow on average by 5.5% annually within the next several years.

How is the market for powder coatings evolving in the UAE and MENA region?

Glukhov: The MENA region is extremely diverse, so in order to deliver a full picture, we should consider GCC and North Africa separately or even each country individually. However, in general, the local powder coatings market is characterised by constant growth as well as high volatility. Another feature is its focus on price. At the same time, we have a very optimistic outlook for our domestic market, which is in the process of transitioning toward high-quality and environmentally cautious standards. Because of its sustainability and cost-effectiveness, powder coating solutions will remain the first choice of today’s architects and technology providers. 

Event tip

After a two succesful editions the Gulf Coatings Show will be back on November 24 to 26 in Sharjah, UAE. The show and conference will provide ample opportunity to network, make and nurture business contacts and benefit from exclusive coatings technology information updates.