IOM3 Southern Africa has joined the International Rubber Conference Organisation

Drakensberg, South Africa – IOM3 Southern Africa has joined the International Rubber Conference Organisation (IRCO) as its first African member. The decision, approved at IRCO’s committee meeting in Bangkok December 2025, brings African representation to the global rubber industry body for the first time in its 60-year history.

This milestone expands IRCO’s global footprint and strengthens its commitment to supporting scientific and technical excellence in rubber and polymer industries worldwide.

IOM3 Southern Africa, an aQiliated society of the UK-based Institute of Materials,
Minerals and Mining, has been a cornerstone of the South African rubber and polymer
community since its constitution was inaugurated in 1958. With more than 120
members across industry, academia, and research, the organisation plays a vital role in
promoting technical knowledge, professional development, and innovation within the
region’s elastomer sector.

Michael Clayton, Executive Chairman of IRCO, welcomed the new membership:
“IOM3 Southern Africa brings 67 years of experience in rubber and polymer science to
IRCO. Prof Hlangothi and his team have built a strong technical organisation with
genuine commitment to advancing the industry. As our gateway to African markets, they
give us perspectives and reach we didn’t have before, and bringing an IRCO conference
to Africa is now a real possibility.”

Professor Percy Hlangothi, Chair of IOM3 Southern Africa, commented:
“Joining IRCO marks an important moment for IOM3 Southern Africa and for the wider
African rubber and polymer community. This membership provides our professionals,
researchers, and students with a stronger international platform to share knowledge,
contribute to global discussions, and showcase the innovation emerging from our
region. We look forward to active participation in IRCO events and to building new
partnerships across the world.”

IRCO coordinates major international rubber conferences, including the annual
International Rubber Conference (IRC) and RubberCon series. These events bring
together scientists, engineers, and industry specialists from around the world. IOM3
Southern Africa’s membership ensures that South Africa, and Africa more broadly, will
now have a voice within this influential global network.