Sheet glass manufacturers in Thailand are concerned at possible overcapacity after China completes large construction projects for the Olympic Games in 2008. MD of Siam Plate Glass Ind Ltd, said that since China opened its markets a few years ago and prepared to host major global events, there had been a significant rise in demand for sheet glass used in construction. He said globally, manufacturers had increased production capacity to meet the rise in Chinese demand, while there had also been an increase in manufacturing inside China. There are currently 120 sheet glass companies in china, a figure that he estimates will rise to some 200 by 2008. He said Chinese manufacturers would also face a shrinking market and may export more in the future, decreasing prices in the world market. Chinese sheet glass is currently 30% cheaper than Thai glass.
