Swedish paint maker in links with CNT Group

CNT Group's paint-making division has forged two joint ventures with Swedish-based paint manufacturer Becker Group, as demand for paint in China grows.

One venture, Becker Acroma-China Paint Co, will focus on industrial paints for wood finishings. The other, Becker Industrial-China Paint Co, will produce coatings for construction equipment and plastics.

China Paint will be in charge of production, marketing and delivery of products under the Becker name. Becker will provide technical know-how.

CNT managing director Paul Lam Ting-ball said demand for paint had soared in China.

'So many mainland-made paints failed to meet environmental protection standards that firms such as Becker will have lots of room to expand,' Mr Lam said.