Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China, 18^th Sept 2026:  On September 18, 2026, a 15-member delegation from the ACI Singapore Chapter (ACI-SC), led by Chapter President Dr Tao Nengfu and Immediate Past President Mr Lu Jin Ping, attended China International Concrete Expo 2026 and the Fifth International Development Forum for the Concrete and Cement-Based Products Industry at the Canton Fair Complex in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.

The delegation included Honorary Secretary Mr Desmond Low Huk Tuang and Honorary Treasurer Ms Li Wei, together with Chapter members and industry leaders from Singapore and Malaysia. The participants represented the concrete and construction sectors and included chief executive officers, managing directors, general managers, and technical directors.

Organized by the China Concrete and Cement-Based Products Association (CCPA), the Expo showcased recent developments and innovations across the concrete and cement-based products industry. It provided an international platform for industry professionals to connect with suppliers, explore potential partnerships, and learn about emerging technologies, market trends, and business opportunities.

The event coincided with CCPA’s 40th anniversary and took place at an important juncture between China’s 14th and 15th Five-Year Plans. Under the theme “Embracing Innovation, Sustainability, Intelligence and Globalization” the event featured one main forum, 21 specialized forums, three flagship competitions, and an exhibition covering the entire industry value chain.

ACI-SC delegates visited exhibition booths showcasing innovations in China’s concrete and construction industries. They engaged with exhibitors to learn about new products, equipment, and technologies and discussed opportunities for technical cooperation and business partnerships, particularly with companies interested in expanding into ASEAN markets.

The 5th International Development Forum for the Concrete and Cement-Based Products Industry was held on the morning of September 18 as one of the specialized forums of China International Concrete Expo 2026. Organized by CCPA and supported by Quangong Machinery Co., Ltd., the forum attracted nearly 200 participants, including more than 70 experts and entrepreneurs from emerging economies. It provided a platform for international dialogue on industry trends, investment, and cooperation while promoting the high-quality development of the concrete and cement-based products sector.

Moderated by Ms Eugenia Li (Li Zhiling), CCPA Deputy Secretary-General for International Cooperation, the forum brought together concrete industry leaders, technical specialists, and association representatives from China, including Hong Kong SAR, as well as Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, and Brazil.

Dr Xu Yongmo, former President and former Honorary President of CCPA, delivered the opening address and presented an overview of the current status and future development of China’s concrete and cement-based products industry.

Other presentations addressed the integration and updating of concrete technical standards in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area; developments in Vietnam’s cement and precast concrete sectors; Malaysia-China collaboration; South Korea’s ready-mixed concrete industry; opportunities in the Brazilian cement and concrete market; globalization strategies for concrete equipment manufacturers; and advances in prestressed concrete cylinder pipe technology.

Representing ACI-SC, Chapter President Dr Tao Nengfu delivered a presentation titled “Singapore’s Latest PPVC Policy and Enabling Technologies for Industrialised Construction.” He outlined the evolution of Singapore’s Prefabricated Prefinished Volumetric Construction (PPVC) policy and explained how integrated planning and design, advanced manufacturing and assembly, digital coordination, quality assurance, logistics planning, and low-carbon solutions support the wider adoption of modular construction. He emphasized that successful PPVC implementation depends on coordinated delivery across design, factory production, transportation, site installation, and building operations.

Ms Gao Zhi, Secretary-General of CCPA, subsequently presented certificates of recognition to the six invited keynote speakers.

The morning program also included the signing of cooperation memoranda between CCPA and the Korea Federation of Ready-Mixed Concrete Industry Cooperatives, and between CCPA and the Malaysia Concrete Institute. CCPA also released the CCPA Recommended List of Key Products, Equipment and Technical Services for the Belt and Road (2026) and Typical Cases of ESG Excellence Practices in China’s Concrete and Cement-Based Products Industry (2025).

In the afternoon, the ACI-SC delegates toured the exhibition, interacted with participating companies, and attended international business matchmaking sessions. These activities provided valuable opportunities to explore emerging technologies, equipment, and construction solutions and to identify potential areas for technical and commercial collaboration.

ACI-SC’s participation strengthened its relationships with regional and international industry organizations and provided a valuable platform for sharing Singapore’s experience in industrialized construction. The visit also reaffirmed the Chapter’s commitment to advancing knowledge exchange, innovation, sustainability, and international cooperation within the concrete industry.

Quanzhou, Fujian Province and Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China 16 to 17 September 2026: A 15-member delegation from the American Concrete Institute Singapore Chapter (ACI-SC), led by Dr Tao Nengfu, President of ACI-SC, visited five companies in Fujian and Guangdong Provinces, China, on 16 and 17 September 2026. The visits provided opportunities to learn about concrete production, construction equipment, resource recycling and manufacturing technologies, and to explore potential collaboration with industry partners.
The delegation included four ACI-SC board members: Dr Tao Nengfu, President; Mr Lu Jin Ping, Immediate Past President; Mr Desmond Low Huk Tuang, Honorary Secretary; and Ms Li Wei, Honorary Treasurer. They were joined by 11 Chapter members, including chief executive officers, managing directors, general managers and technical directors from the concrete and construction industries in Singapore and Malaysia.
Initiated and planned by ACI-SC, the visits were jointly organised with the China Concrete and Cement-Based Products Association (CCPA). The programme included the following companies:
1. Fujian South Highway Machinery Co., Ltd. (NFLG), Quanzhou, Fujian Province
2. Fujian Quangong Machinery Co., Ltd. (QGM), Quanzhou, Fujian Province
3. Fujian Jingong Machinery Co., Ltd., Jinjiang, Fujian Province
4. China Construction Environmental Protection Building Materials Technology Co., Ltd., Guangzhou, Guangdong Province
5. Guangzhou Shiwei New Material Technology Co., Ltd., Guangzhou, Guangdong Province
The visits on 16 September focused on equipment manufacturers in Fujian, followed by visits to building materials and new materials companies in Guangzhou on 17 September.
On the morning of 16 September 2026, the delegation visited Fujian South Highway Machinery Co., Ltd. (NFLG), Quanzhou, Fujian Province, accompanied by Ms Li Zhiling, Deputy Secretary-General of CCPA. The visitors were welcomed by Mr Fang Qingxi, Chairman of NFLG; Mr Zhuang Ruibin, Marketing Director; Mr Li Jingxiang, Sales Support Manager; and other company representatives.

Delegates toured the product showroom, intelligent control centre, production workshops, testing facilities, Mixing Academy and museum. The tour introduced NFLG’s development and manufacturing capabilities, with a focus on technologies supporting the concrete and construction materials industries.

During the discussion, Mr Fang outlined NFLG’s research and development activities, green and low-carbon technologies, and intelligent manufacturing. Dr Tao thanked the company for hosting the visit and expressed interest in continued technical exchanges and closer collaboration.

On the afternoon of 16 September 2026, the delegation visited QGM in Quanzhou. Senior management welcomed the visitors for a tour of the exhibition and manufacturing facilities, followed by a technical exchange session.

The visit introduced QGM’s concrete block-making machinery and integrated production solutions, including batching, mixing, moulding and product handling systems. These technologies support the manufacture of concrete masonry blocks, paving blocks and kerbstones for building, infrastructure and landscaping applications.

QGM’s resource recycling solutions support the use of suitable processed solid waste in concrete products. Incorporating recycled construction materials and industrial by-products into blocks and paving products can reduce demand for virgin resources and divert waste from disposal. The visit highlighted the relationship between equipment, material selection and product quality, as well as the role of automation in efficient manufacturing.
Discussions explored potential market opportunities for QGM’s concrete manufacturing and resource recycling solutions in Singapore and other ASEAN countries. Participants considered sustainable construction, infrastructure development and demand for efficient production technologies as areas for further dialogue.

Dr Tao presented an ACI-SC commemorative plaque to Mr Fu Guohua, General Manager of QGM, in appreciation of the company’s hospitality and support. The visit strengthened professional connections and provided a basis for further technical dialogue.
On the Afternoon of 16 September 2026, the delegation visited Fujian Jingong Machinery Co., Ltd. in Jinjiang, accompanied by Ms Li Zhiling of CCPA. Jingong’s senior management welcomed the visitors for a factory tour and technical exchange.

Delegates toured the intelligent manufacturing facilities and learned about Jingong’s product range, including wheel loaders, forklift loaders and wheeled excavators. The factory tour and hands-on test-drive experience provided a closer look at the company’s equipment and manufacturing capabilities.

During the discussion, Mr Chen Wenqi, General Marketing Manager of Jingong, introduced the group’s history, technical expertise and corporate strategy. He outlined its integrated approach to energy generation, grid connection, electricity demand, energy storage and charging, alongside its work in international expansion, digitalisation and low-carbon technologies.

The exchange highlighted potential applications for low-carbon equipment and energy solutions in the concrete and cement products industry, providing a basis for further discussions on practical applications and collaboration.

On the Afternoon of 17 September 2026, the delegation visited China Construction Environmental Protection Building Materials Technology Co., Ltd. in Guangzhou. Senior management welcomed the delegates for a tour of the exhibition and manufacturing facilities.

The visit began with an introduction to the company’s development, business activities and environmental building materials operations. Exhibition displays and presentations illustrated its approach to resource utilisation and construction materials production. Digital displays showed how information systems support the monitoring and management of industrial operations.

During the tour, company representatives introduced the facilities and explained features of the site through display models and on-site briefings. Delegates exchanged questions and observations with their hosts, gaining a closer understanding of the relationship between materials processing, production operations and environmental management.

The visit offered a setting for considering the relevance of resource recycling and sustainable building materials to Singapore and the wider region. Possible areas for future exchange include recycled material applications, product quality assessment and knowledge sharing among manufacturers, contractors and researchers.

On the Afternoon of 17 September 2026, the delegation visited Guangzhou Shiwei New Material Technology Co., Ltd. The tour began at the New Materials Base exhibition hall, where delegates learned about the company’s development and the construction of its new facility. They also exchanged views on the development of concrete producers in Singapore and Malaysia, and noted the base’s efficient use of land and forward-looking design.

At the Production and Operations Centre, delegates observed the company’s digital twin system and learned about its intelligent central control and big-data visualisation platforms. The exchange covered how these digital systems support smart factory development.

The subsequent discussion focused on the research, development and application of new road technologies and materials. Company representatives introduced solutions described as full-proportion reclaimed asphalt recycling technology, a water-reactive high-durability asphalt system (RA), and modified-resin coloured anti-skid pavement (TCC). Participants discussed their technical characteristics and potential applications.
With reference to Singapore’s relevant industry policies, both sides exchanged views on green and circular applications, standards development, and product testing and certification. The exchange also supported the company’s consideration of overseas markets and relevant policy environments.

Reflections on the Visits:
The two-day programme broadened delegates’ understanding of manufacturing technologies, concrete production, construction equipment and resource recycling in Fujian and Guangdong. It also provided opportunities to consider how these technologies and practices could support industry needs in Singapore and the region.
Delegates valued the opportunities to exchange knowledge and build professional connections. In written feedback, Mr Lim, Managing Director of C&S Consultant Pte Ltd, highlighted the value of the ACI-SC-organised visit and praised the hospitality extended by the hosts. The Chapter expressed its appreciation to CCPA and all five host companies for their support and looked forward to continued technical exchanges and potential collaboration.

On 25 September 2026, the ACI Singapore Chapter successfully hosted a technical webinar entitled “New ACI CODE-440.11-22: Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete Reinforced with GFRP Bars.”

The webinar was presented by Dr Khaled Nahlawi, PhD, PE, Distinguished Engineer at the American Concrete Institute, who shared his extensive knowledge of glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) bars and their use in structural concrete.

During the presentation, Dr Nahlawi explained the fundamental material and performance properties of GFRP reinforcing bars and compared their behaviour with that of conventional steel reinforcement. He highlighted important differences in strength, stiffness, durability and structural response that engineers must consider when designing GFRP-reinforced concrete structures.

The presentation also provided an overview of the scope, applications and limitations of ACI CODE-440.11-22, as well as its relationship with other relevant standards and technical documents issued by ACI, ASTM and ICC. Participants gained valuable insights into the basic mechanics of GFRP-reinforced concrete, together with key Code requirements covering design, detailing, installation and general field applications.

As the construction industry seeks more durable and corrosion-resistant reinforcement solutions, particularly for structures exposed to aggressive environments, GFRP bars offer considerable potential. Their successful application, however, requires a proper understanding of their distinctive material behaviour and strict compliance with the applicable design and construction requirements. ACI CODE-440.11-22 provides an important framework for the safe and responsible use of this technology.

The ACI Singapore Chapter extends its sincere appreciation to Dr Khaled Nahlawi for delivering this highly informative and timely presentation. We also thank all participants for attending the webinar and for their continued support of the Chapter’s technical and educational activities.

The ACI Singapore Chapter looks forward to organising more programmes that promote knowledge sharing and advance concrete technology and practice in Singapore and the region.

The 16th High Performance Concrete Symposium was successfully held from 22 to 23 August 2026 in Jinan, Shandong, China. The American Concrete Institute (Singapore Chapter) was honoured to serve as a co-organizer of this important international event.

With the theme “Resource-Saving, Energy-Saving and Labour-Saving Concrete Technologies in Harmony with the Environment,” the symposium brought together more than 130 experts, academics, researchers and industry professionals. Participants represented leading universities and organizations from China, Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines and other countries.

The conference provided a valuable platform for sharing the latest research findings, technological developments and major engineering applications relating to high-performance concrete. Key topics included high-performance and ultra-high-performance concrete, low-carbon construction materials, recycled aggregates and solid-waste utilization, 3D concrete printing, intelligent manufacturing and sustainable construction.

Mr Lu Jin Ping, Immediate Past President of ACI Singapore Chapter and Chairman of Asia Laboratories Group, delivered an opening speech on behalf of ACI Singapore Chapter. He congratulated the organizers on the successful convening of the symposium and expressed his hope that the conference would further strengthen international academic exchange, research collaboration and knowledge sharing. He emphasized the importance of advancing high-performance concrete technologies to support sustainable infrastructure development in different countries.

Mr Lu also delivered a keynote presentation entitled:

“From Waste to Walls: Singapore’s First On-site 3D-Printed Kindergarten Using 100% Recycled Concrete Fine Aggregate.”

During his presentation, Mr Lu introduced the development of sustainable construction materials using recycled concrete waste and shared the successful implementation of these materials in Singapore’s first on-site 3D-printed kindergarten. The project demonstrated how circular-economy principles, materials engineering and digital construction technologies can be integrated to reduce construction waste and advance low-carbon building solutions.

The symposium also featured five invited presentations and sixteen technical presentations covering green and low-carbon concrete, high-performance concrete materials and applications, intelligent production and emerging construction technologies.

ACI Singapore Chapter is pleased to have contributed to the success of this symposium. The Chapter will continue to strengthen international cooperation and promote the exchange of knowledge, technology and practical experience to advance concrete innovation and support a more sustainable and resilient built environment.

On 24 July 2026, William J. Gold, P.E., Senior Engineer-American Concrete Institute introduced  ACI 562-25, Assessment, Repair, and Rehabilitation of Existing Concrete Structures—Code Requirements and Commentary. The latest version of the Code includes numerous updates, three new chapters, and a new appendix. An updated companion guide provides expanded information and project examples to assist users in interpreting and applying the provisions.

Topics  covered include:

•    Key changes in the updated Code

•    Determining the design-basis code

•    Reliability-based assessment and revisions to the detailed assessment equations

•    New chapter on fire resistance, assessment, and damage repair

•    New chapter on reinforcement details and conditions for structural evaluation and repair design

•    New chapter on temporary shoring and bracing

•    Construction documents and quality assurance requirements

Learning Objectives:

1.    Understand the reorganization and structure of the updated Code.

2.    Recognize that new structural members are governed by the existing building code, while their connections to existing structures follow current code requirements.

3.    Explain the objective of a concrete repair code—to provide a uniform, flexible set of requirements addressing a range of repair scenarios, including conventional reinforced concrete, prestressed concrete, and fiber-reinforced polymer systems.

4.    Describe the effects of fire on reinforced concrete members and methods for determining residual strength.

5.    Determine the development length of historical reinforcement using newly introduced equations.

6.    Describe the various bond conditions at the interface between existing concrete substrates and new concrete overlays or placements.

7.    Recognize the importance of complete construction documentation and quality assurance provisions.

We greatly appreciate the time and effort he put into preparing and delivering the presentation, as well as your support in sharing your professional knowledge and experience.

On 22 May 2026, Dr Alan Eddin Douba provided an overview of low carbon concrete, sustainability, and resilience specific to the concrete industry. Topics include terminology and acronyms, state of the practice, what to expect in the future, legislation and resources. Learning Objectives: – Describe the concepts of sustainability and resilience, in the context of the concrete industry. – Identify ways the concrete industry can contribute to sustainability. – Summarize the current status of the concrete industry in providing low carbon solutions. – Define the following low-carbon concrete related terms: GWP, EPD, LCA.

His sharing provided valuable insights into concrete sustainability, resilience, embodied carbon reduction, and the important role of concrete in supporting a more sustainable built environment. The topic was highly relevant and beneficial to our members and participants.

We greatly appreciate the time and effort he put into preparing and delivering the presentation, as well as your support in sharing your professional knowledge and experience.