The K show, the world's largest and most influential trade fair for the plastics and rubber industry, is currently underway in Dusseldorf, Germany. Running from Oct. 8 to 15, this year's event has attracted about 3,200 exhibitors from 66 countries and regions to explore the latest industry trends and cutting-edge technologies. Held every three years, the K show is widely regarded as a bellwether for the industry. This year's edition is centered on key themes such as artificial intelligence, the circular economy, and sustainable materials. According to organizers, both the exhibition area and the number of exhibitors have reached a new all-time high. Notably, the number of Chinese companies participating has seen a significant surge, increasing by nearly 50 percent from 310 at the last event to around 460 this year. This makes China the second-largest exhibiting nation, surpassed only by the host country, Germany. Marius Berlemann, operative managing director of Messe Dusseldorf, praised the growing influence of these companies beyond just their numbers. From intelligent production equipment and bio-based plastic solutions to new material research and green manufacturing upgrades, Chinese exhibitors are showcasing their latest achievements in high-end, diversified, and low-carbon development, earning widespread attention and high praise from the international community. This sentiment was echoed by other attendees, who noted a shift in China's role within the global industry. Shotlist: Dusseldorf, Germany - Oct 8, 2025: 1. Various of visitors, exhibits at K 2025 trade fair for international plastics, rubber industry; 2. SOUNDBITE (English) Marius Berlemann, operative managing director, Messe Dusseldorf GmbH (ending with shot 3): "It's not just the quantity, it is the quality. We do see Chinese companies really bringing technologies here to the market, the world premiere being shown for the first time to the world stage here in Dusseldorf at K and it's really about also the Chinese companies are picking up the topic of the circular economy, so it's about sustainability when we speak about the plastic and rubber industry. I think China has a very strong role in really developing the entire industry and setting also benchmarks when it comes to sustainability."; 3. Various of visitors, exhibits; 4. SOUNDBITE (English) Fabrice Guillermain, French exhibitor (starting with shot 3/ending with shot 5): "First of all in terms of size and volume, but also in terms of innovation and new product development. So China today is no longer a single player. China is today a leader in the new technology."; 5. Various of visitors, exhibits. [Restriction - No access Chinese mainland]