Review JEC World 2026 | International positioning of the Dutch composites sector

From 10 to 12 March 2026, JEC World took place in Paris,the world’s leading international event for composite materials and technologies. Over the course of three days, thousands of professionals from across the entire value chain gathered to present innovations, exchange knowledge and establish new partnerships.

For the Netherlands, this edition represented more than participation in a trade fair. The NL Pavilion (Hall 5 – Stand F117) served as a visible platform where companies, knowledge institutes and partners jointly reinforced the international position of the Dutch composites sector.

Internationalisation as a strategic choice

The Dutch composites sector operates in a highly international market. Innovation in thermoplastic composites, high-performance materials and automated production processes takes place within global value chains. International collaboration is therefore not optional, but essential for continued growth, technological development and strategic autonomy.

Platforms such as JEC World clearly demonstrate how countries position themselves within the global landscape. It is where technological strength is showcased, new partnerships are formed and positions within international supply chains are strengthened.

The Netherlands distinguishes itself through the presence of the complete value chain. From material development and design to manufacturing, automation and application. This coherence was clearly visible at the NL Pavilion through the joint presentation under recognisable NL branding by the participating companies and knowledge institutes: Fontijne Presses, Cato Composites BV, TANIQ, Pontis Engineering, Solico Engineering B.V., IGM Resins / Parthian Technology B.V., SPIRAL Recycled Thermoplastic Composites B.V., Royal3D, Wageningen University & Research, TNO / Brightlands Materials Center, Holland Composites BV, Plasthill, NXTGEN Hightech, Nouryon and AniForm Engineering B.V.

Together, they represent the full Dutch composites value chain and demonstrate the strength of collaboration within one national ecosystem.

Visibility and international engagement

Throughout the three days, the NL Pavilion was a well-visited meeting point. International visitors engaged with Dutch companies, and many discussions resulted in new contacts and follow-up meetings.

A key moment was the Networking Cocktail on Wednesday afternoon, hosted by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in France in cooperation with CompositesNL, NAG and the Netherlands Innovation Network France. The event brought together industry, knowledge institutes and government representatives in an international setting and attracted a broad international audience.

During the cocktail, Leo Warmerdam (Holland High Tech) delivered a contribution highlighting the role of composites as a key enabling technology within the High Tech Systems & Materials sector and the Dutch National Technology Strategy. Throughout the exhibition, he engaged with participants at the NL Pavilion and visited Dutch companies across the exhibition floor.

Connecting with the next generation

A notable highlight was the presence of a large group of Dutch students who travelled together to visit JEC World. Their visible participation at the NL Pavilion emphasised the importance of knowledge development, talent and continuity within the sector, illustrating the connection between today’s industry and tomorrow’s professionals.

Strong together on the international stage

The energy on the exhibition floor, the international interest and the substantive discussions confirm that the Netherlands holds a strong and relevant position within the global composites industry.

We thank all participating companies, partners and stakeholders who contributed to a successful and highly visible edition of the NL Pavilion at JEC World 2026.

The Netherlands — Where Else!