Welcome

As we bring you the final edition of Asian Glass for 2025, the global glass industry stands at an energising point of transition. This has been a year defined by renewed momentum, strategic investment and rapid technological advancement across multiple market segments. Our contributors have captured these developments with clarity and depth, providing an insightful overview of the trends shaping the year ahead.

Japan’s flat glass sector is one of the year’s standout narratives. As Jahir Ahmed reports, the industry is entering a new phase of growth driven by robust domestic demand for energy-efficient construction, stricter building standards and a recovering automotive and electronics landscape. Japan’s national decarbonisation strategy is accelerating the shift towards cleaner production and advanced low-carbon solutions. Market leaders AGC, NSG and Central Glass are investing in capacity, strengthening environmental commitments and steering product development towards next-generation performance. With the market forecast to approach $12 billion by 2033, Japan is consolidating its role as a stable regional supplier and a global pioneer in advanced flat glass technology.

Rapid progress in solar deployment continues to reshape the global flat glass landscape. As Yogender Singh Malik highlights, solar glass has become one of the fastest-growing segments of the industry. Asia now commands around 98% of global production, led by China and supported by India, Malaysia, Vietnam and Thailand. These producers are not only expanding capacity but also influencing the technological direction of the solar supply chain, cementing the region’s leadership in this increasingly strategic sector.

Across the Middle East, insulating glass units (IGUs) are seeing exceptional growth. In his analysis, Jahir Ahmed explores how rapid urban development, large-scale construction and government-driven sustainability mandates are fuelling the demand for high-performance glazing. From large-format façades to emerging vacuum-insulated systems, manufacturers are scaling up operations to meet evolving building standards. With the regional market projected to reach about $1 billion by 2033, innovation in coatings, gas fills and energy-efficient systems will continue to define this fast-maturing segment.

Growth in appliance glass has also accelerated. As Rohan Gunasekera reports, rising living standards and evolving consumer expectations are increasing the use of specialised glass in ovens, microwaves, cooktops, refrigerators, washing machines and coffee makers. Asia remains the strongest engine of this demand, making appliance glass an expanding and strategically important business for global manufacturers.

Our State of the Nation feature turns to Rajasthan, which has rapidly evolved into India’s largest flat and float glass hub. With expansions by Saint-Gobain and Asahi India Glass, and diversification from domestic producers such as Emerge Glass, the state now accounts for nearly 20 per cent of India’s float capacity. A supportive MSME base and strong gas infrastructure further reinforce Rajasthan’s emergence as a glassmaking powerhouse.

We are also delighted to present our exclusive interview with Lakisha Woods, president and CEO of the National Glass Association. She offers thoughtful perspectives on market opportunities, strategic priorities and the evolving role of glass in the built environment, reaffirming the NGA’s influence as a global voice for education, standards and technical excellence.

As 2025 draws to a close, the Asian Glass team extends warm Christmas greetings and sincere thanks to our readers, advertisers, contributors and partners. Your trust and support remain central to our success. We look forward to an exciting year ahead and invite both returning and new advertisers to continue growing with us.
From all of us at Asian Glass: Season’s Greetings and best wishes for a successful year to come.