China's 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–30) presents ample opportunities for multinational corporations, particularly as AkzoNobel's business in China is highly aligned with the country's development outlook, said a senior executive of the Dutch paints and coatings company.

"The Chinese market is the most important for AkzoNobel and our largest single market globally. Our decision to establish a strong presence in China is driven not only by its scale, but also by its innovation," said Yin Tao, president of AkzoNobel China.

According to Yin, Chinese customers, whether B2C or B2B, are highly innovative, making the Chinese market a hub of innovation.

"More importantly, innovations created in China for the local market are sometimes also shared globally," Yin said, adding that the company's teams in China are pursuing healthier long-term growth.

Dulux, a brand under AkzoNobel, introduced its new artistic paint collection in Shanghai earlier in March. The new collection operates under an industry first "Mix and Match" design framework, is tailored for Chinese families and co-developed with AkzoNobel's Global Aesthetic Center (GAC).

Tapping into China's increasingly complex decorating landscape, the new collection responds to Chinese consumers' preference for using the home as a vehicle for self-expression, emotional healing, and an aesthetic lifestyle.