For three decades, Interlakokraska has stood as the undisputed flagship of Russia’s paint and coatings industry. As the sector navigates import substitution and seeks new international partnerships, this annual exhibition has become an essential platform for manufacturers, raw material suppliers, and equipment providers from across the globe.
The Russian paint and coatings market is at a pivotal moment. With traditional European supply chains disrupted, the industry is actively pursuing “technological sovereignty”. This has created an unprecedented window of opportunity for manufacturers from China, Turkiye, Iran, and other partner nations. The numbers tell the story: at the 30th anniversary edition of Interlakokraska in February 2026, nearly 200 Chinese companies participated, reflecting the deepening trade ties between the two nations.
For paint manufacturers, raw material suppliers, laboratory equipment providers, and application specialists, the 2026–2027 calendar centres on one dominant event—Interlakokraska—with a clear annual rhythm and strategic significance that extends far beyond Moscow’s exhibition halls.
The Flagship: Interlakokraska 2026–2027 (Moscow)
Russia’s Largest International Exhibition for Paints, Coatings, and Raw Materials
Interlakokraska is the largest and most prestigious industry project in the Russian paint and coatings sector, with more than 30 years of history. Organized by EXPOCENTRE AO with official support from the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade, the Russian Chemists Union, and the Soyuzkraska Association, the exhibition has earned its reputation as the main platform for innovation, experience exchange, and strategy development for the industry.
2026 Edition: A Landmark 30th Anniversary
The 30th anniversary edition of Interlakokraska took place 24–27 February 2026 at the Timiryazev Centre in Moscow—a modern exhibition venue that opened in late 2024, conveniently located a seven-minute walk from the Petrovsko-Razumovskaya metro station.
Key Statistics (2026):
| Metric | Figure |
|---|---|
| Exhibitors | 295 companies from 9 countries |
| Exhibition Space | Approximately 14,759+ square metres |
| Participating Countries | Russia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, China, Iran, Kazakhstan, South Korea, Malaysia, Turkiye, Uzbekistan |
| Chinese Exhibitors | Nearly 200 companies |
Notable Exhibitors:
Foreign participants included Guangzhou Titanos Industry and Longly Group (China), Gunkem Gunduz Kimyevi Maddeler and Elars Elektronik Makina (Turkiye), and Peka Chemie Industrial Company (Iran). Russian industry leaders included Homa, INDLAK, Allnex Belgorod, RIF-Micromramor, and Larchfield LSN.
What Was on Display:
The exhibition covered the entire cycle of paint and coating production and application:
| Category | Specific Products |
|---|---|
| Coatings | Materials for surface treatment of various substrates |
| Raw Materials | Resins, solvents, pigments, additives, and binders |
| Production Equipment | Mixing, dispersion, grinding, and filling machinery |
| Application Equipment | Spraying systems, dosing and colouring equipment |
| Laboratory Equipment | Testing instruments, quality control systems |
| Environmental Solutions | Waste treatment systems, cleaning equipment |
Conference Programme: Focus on Technological Sovereignty
The 2026 conference programme was strategically focused on the industry’s most pressing challenges:
- Plenary Session: “Strategic Directions of Development of the Paint and Coating Sub-Industry” with participation from the Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade, discussing systemic challenges, export opportunities, and state support tools
- Panel on Technical Regulations: Dedicated to new safety standards for paints and coatings and product conformity assessment
- Workshops: Covering advanced laboratory equipment, sector-specific solutions for construction and infrastructure, and human resources issues
The event attracted a wide range of visitors beyond paint manufacturers themselves—including representatives from construction, chemical, oil and gas, woodworking, furniture, automotive, aircraft, and shipbuilding industries. This cross-industry coverage made the exhibition especially valuable for exhibitors seeking new markets and partners.
Registration and Participation:
The exhibition was open to trade visitors aged 12 and over. The registration deadline for exhibitors was 25 January 2026, allowing sufficient time for visa processing for international participants.
2027 Edition: 31st International Exhibition
For those who missed the 2026 edition or are planning ahead, the 31st edition of Interlakokraska is already scheduled 15–18 March 2027, returning to the Timiryazev Centre in Moscow.
2027 Event Details:
| Metric | 2027 Data |
|---|---|
| Date | March 15–18, 2027 |
| Venue | Timiryazev Centre, Moscow |
| Historical Exhibitors (2026) | 299 from 8 countries |
| Historical Visitors (2026) | 8,230 |
| Historical Space (2026) | 14,759 sq. m |
Why Book Early for 2027:
Based on 2025 and 2026 performance, the 31st edition is expected to draw substantial international participation, particularly from China. As noted by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) Chemical Sub-council, “enterprises that exhibited generally reported good on-site results”. Organizers recommend early registration to secure prime stand locations, as space is limited and demand remains strong.
2028: Looking Further Ahead
The 32nd edition of Interlakokraska is anticipated for 2028, though specific dates had not been announced as of this publication. The event will continue at the Timiryazev Centre, organized by EXPOCENTRE AO.
The Strategic Context: Why Interlakokraska Matters Now
Supply Chain Realignment
The Russian paint and coatings industry is undergoing a fundamental restructuring. Following the withdrawal of many European suppliers, Russian manufacturers are actively seeking alternative sources for raw materials, pigments, and specialized equipment. The conference programme’s explicit focus on “ensuring technological sovereignty” reflects this strategic imperative.
The Chinese Opportunity
According to CCPIT, nearly 200 Chinese companies participated in Interlakokraska 2025, and the trend continued strongly into 2026. The Russian paint and coatings market is concentrated in three federal districts: the Central Federal District (Moscow Oblast and Yaroslavl Oblast), the Southern Federal District (Rostov Oblast), and the Northwestern Federal District (St. Petersburg). Moscow’s geographic position makes Interlakokraska the primary gateway to all three regions.
Beyond Moscow: Industry Concentration
While Interlakokraska is the national flagship, serious participants should understand Russia’s regional paint industry geography:
- Central Federal District: The largest concentration, anchored by Moscow Oblast and Yaroslavl Oblast
- Southern Federal District: Rostov Oblast as a key production hub
- Northwestern Federal District: St. Petersburg as a major industrial centre
Exhibitors at Interlakokraska gain access to buyers and decision-makers from all three regions in a single venue.
At a Glance: 2026–2028 Russian Paint Industry Events
| Event | Date | Location | Status | Key Metrics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Interlakokraska 2026 | 24–27 February 2026 | Timiryazev Centre, Moscow | Passed (2026 edition complete) | 295 exhibitors, 9 countries, ~200 Chinese exhibitors |
| Interlakokraska 2027 | 15–18 March 2027 | Timiryazev Centre, Moscow | Upcoming – Register now | Historical: 299 exhibitors, 8,230 visitors |
| Interlakokraska 2028 | Dates TBD | Timiryazev Centre, Moscow | Future edition | Organised by EXPOCENTRE AO |
Strategic Takeaways for Paint Industry Professionals
1. Interlakokraska is the Only Major Dedicated Paint Event in Russia
Unlike sectors with multiple competing exhibitions, Russia’s paint and coatings industry calendar is centred on one clear flagship. For any company serious about the Russian market, Interlakokraska is non-negotiable.
2. The 2026 Edition Has Passed—Plan for 2027
The 30th anniversary edition took place in February 2026. With nearly 200 Chinese exhibitors and strong participation from Turkiye and Iran, it demonstrated the continued vitality of Russia’s paint industry despite broader market challenges. The 31st edition in March 2027 is now the next opportunity.
3. Import Substitution is Driving Demand
The conference programme’s emphasis on “alternative suppliers of raw materials” and “technological sovereignty” reflects a genuine market need. Russian paint manufacturers are actively seeking new sources for resins, solvents, pigments, and additives that were previously sourced from Europe. Companies that can offer quality alternatives at competitive prices will find receptive buyers.
4. Cross-Industry Visitor Base Expands Opportunities
Interlakokraska attracts not only paint manufacturers but also end-users from construction, automotive, aerospace, shipbuilding, and furniture manufacturing. For exhibitors, this means access to the entire value chain—from raw material buyers to application specialists.
5. Equipment Suppliers Have a Clear Audience
Production equipment, laboratory instruments, and application systems are well-represented at the exhibition. With Russian manufacturers modernizing their facilities and replacing European machinery, opportunities for suppliers of mixing, dispersion, filling, and testing equipment are substantial.
6. Venue Familiarity Simplifies Logistics
The Timiryazev Centre has now hosted multiple editions of Interlakokraska, and the venue is well-established with convenient metro access. For international visitors, this consistency simplifies travel planning.
7. Early Registration is Essential
Based on CCPIT guidance, early registration (ideally 3–4 months before the event) is strongly recommended to secure visa processing time and prime stand locations. For the March 2027 edition, registration should be completed by December 2026.
Who Should Attend
| Attendee Type | Primary Interest |
|---|---|
| Paint and coating manufacturers | Raw material sourcing, technology scouting, market intelligence |
| Raw material suppliers | Access to Russian paint manufacturers seeking alternative sources |
| Equipment manufacturers | Production machinery, laboratory instruments, application systems |
| Distributors and traders | Establishing supply relationships with Russian buyers |
| Construction and industrial end-users | Identifying new coating solutions for specific applications |
| Chinese manufacturers | Market entry, distributor search, direct sales |
| Turkish and Iranian suppliers | Expanding existing Russian market presence |
| Laboratory and testing companies | Quality control equipment, certification services |
Additional Paint-Related Events in Russia
While Interlakokraska dominates the dedicated paint and coatings calendar, professionals may also find relevant opportunities at broader industrial or chemical exhibitions. For 2027–2028, keep an eye on:
- Rosmould | Rosplast (Moscow, June 2026/2027): Features coatings for plastics and moulding applications
- Composite-Expo (Moscow, April 2027): Includes coatings for composite materials
- ChemTech (Moscow, October 2027): General chemical technology exhibition with paint industry relevance
However, for dedicated, comprehensive coverage of the paint and coatings sector, Interlakokraska remains the definitive event.
Russia’s paint and coatings industry in 2026–2027 is defined by one dominant event, strong international participation, and significant supply chain opportunities. Interlakokraska, now in its 30th year, has weathered market shifts and emerged as the essential gathering for manufacturers, suppliers, and buyers across the sector.
For international suppliers—particularly from China, Turkiye, Iran, and other partner nations—the current moment presents an unprecedented window of opportunity. With European suppliers largely absent and Russian manufacturers actively seeking alternatives, Interlakokraska offers direct access to qualified decision-makers who attend with specific purchasing intent.
The 30th anniversary edition (February 2026) has passed, but planning for the 31st Interlakokraska (March 15–18, 2027) should begin now. Early registration is advised, as space is limited and demand—particularly from Chinese exhibitors—remains strong.
The message is clear: Russia’s paint and coatings market is open for business, and Interlakokraska is where that business gets done.
Note: Always confirm details with event organizers before making travel arrangements.
