AM-Platform Joins Addliance: Implications for ASEAN Factories

European AM Collaboration Expands, Benefiting ASEAN Factories \\[8pt] The recent announcement that AM-Platform, a well-established European additive manufacturing (AM) network, has joined Addliance as a Core Member, signals a significant step forward in the global AM landscape. This development is not just a European affair; it holds substantial implications for factories in Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia. \\[8pt] ### A Network of Over 500 Stakeholders \\[8pt] AM-Platform, active since 2007, connects more than 500 stakeholders across over 25 countries. Its primary focus is on coordinating AM development and fostering a shared strategic understanding of the technology. By becoming a Core Member of Addliance, AM-Platform aims to align its efforts with the alliance’s direction and combine resources with other members. This move underscores the importance of collaboration in advancing industrial AM adoption. \\[8pt] Paula Queipo Rodríguez, Deputy Coordinator of AM-Platform, emphasized the collective nature of AM's industrial adoption. She stated, “Industrial adoption of AM is a collective journey. Real transformation only happens in networks, and this is where Addliance and AM-Platform come together.” \\[8pt] ### Strengthening Europe’s Position in Global AM \\[8pt] Addliance, a European AM Hubs Alliance, aims to strengthen Europe’s position in the global AM sector through cooperation, knowledge exchange, and a stronger European voice for the industry. The addition of AM-Platform brings decades of community-building experience and a new generation of cross-border collaboration. This partnership is expected to enhance the coordination of AM networks under shared frameworks, which can serve as a model for similar initiatives in ASEAN. \\[8pt] For factories in ASEAN, this means access to a wealth of knowledge, best practices, and innovative solutions. As European AM networks continue to collaborate and share their expertise, ASEAN manufacturers can benefit from these advancements. For instance, Thai factories can leverage the latest AM technologies to improve production efficiency and reduce costs. Vietnamese manufacturers can explore new applications in electronics and automotive industries, while Indonesian and Malaysian factories can enhance their capabilities in mold and die making. \\[8pt] ### Concrete Takeaways for Factory Buyers \\[8pt] The integration of AM-Platform into Addliance offers several key takeaways for factory buyers in ASEAN. First, it highlights the importance of building strong networks and partnerships to drive innovation. Second, it provides a blueprint for how regional collaborations can be structured to maximize benefits. Finally, it opens up opportunities for ASEAN factories to engage with European AM experts, potentially leading to joint projects, technology transfers, and improved competitiveness. \\[8pt] In conclusion, the collaboration between AM-Platform and Addliance is a positive development for the global AM industry. For ASEAN factories, it presents a valuable opportunity to learn from and collaborate with European counterparts, ultimately driving the adoption and advancement of additive manufacturing in the region.