ZVO represented at Surtech Eurasia 2025 in Istanbul

Lukas Hanstein, Head of Policy at the German Surface Technology Association (ZVO), and DGO President Dr. Martin Metzner travelled to Turkey together to intensify the dialog with companies, researchers and political decision-makers. Surtech Eurasia is regarded as a showcase for global developments in surface technology. Numerous exhibitors from Asia, the Middle East and Europe presented their latest technologies, processes and products. For the ZVO, the trade fair offered the opportunity to gain insights into international trends, make contacts outside Europe and strengthen the visibility of German surface technology on a global stage.

ZVO at the Surtech Eurasia conference

In addition to visiting the trade fair, the ZVO was also actively involved in the accompanying conference program. On the first day, Lukas Hanstein spoke about current regulatory developments in the European Union. In his presentation, he highlighted the key legislative initiatives for the industry - in particular REACH, PFAS, CLP and POP. Hanstein made it clear that the regulatory framework in Brussels shapes not only European but also international markets. For non-European companies in particular, it is crucial to understand the requirements that apply to products and processes in order to continue to have access to the European single market. On the following day, Dr. Martin Metzner picked up on this point. In his presentation, he impressively demonstrated how regulation in Germany - despite the burden it places on companies - can also stimulate innovation and research. Using concrete examples from practice, he made it clear that adapting to new environmental and safety standards often leads to technological progress, which ultimately also strengthens the competitiveness of the industry.

International challenges for surface technology

With their joint appearance, Hanstein and Metzner were able to emphasize the central role of German surface technology in international debates. The ZVO used Surtech Eurasia not only as a platform to present its own positions on European regulation, but also to show that the industry is prepared to take responsibility in matters of sustainability, the circular economy and innovation. The visit to the trade fair made it clear once again that the challenges facing the industry are international, but the solutions are often locally based. The exchange at Surtech Eurasia provided the ZVO with valuable impetus that will now be incorporated into political work at national and European level.