BASF has opened an expanded coatings technical competence centre in Bangkok, Thailand. Located at the supplier’s site in Bangpoo, the centre spans about 2,300 sq m and serves the automotive industry in the ASEAN region.

The centre is equipped with facilities and laboratory for product development, performance testing, colour design and a production unit.

Peter Fischer, senior vice president, coatings solutions Asia Pacific, for BASF said: “We believe that this centre will become an important business partner to our car and motorcycle customers in the region, by providing them with innovative, reliable coatings solutions and supply capability. Our technical and production footprint follows the market needs and supports our customers’ growth plans.”

“BASF has been active in this region since 1966, with a strong foothold in Thailand,” said Boonchai Opas-iam-likit, BASF’s group managing director of Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar. “Thailand’s position as a key player will be further strengthened with the economic development of its neighbouring countries and the vision of the ASEAN Economic Community. The opening of this technical competence centre reflects the increasing prominence of the ASEAN automotive market and demonstrates the strategic importance of [the region to us].”