Key Insights
The Asia-Pacific automotive composites market is poised for significant expansion, driven by the imperative for lightweight vehicles to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. The region's dynamic automotive sector, particularly in China, Japan, India, and South Korea, is a primary growth engine. A projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 11.6% signifies sustained market development through 2025. Key growth drivers include the increasing adoption of advanced materials like carbon fiber and thermoplastic polymers, offering superior strength-to-weight ratios. Innovations in manufacturing processes, such as resin transfer molding and vacuum infusion, are boosting production efficiency and cost-effectiveness. While the higher cost of composites remains a consideration, technological advancements and economies of scale are mitigating this challenge. Market segmentation reveals substantial opportunities across structural assemblies, powertrain components, and interior/exterior vehicle parts. Leading companies are investing in R&D to enhance material properties and manufacturing techniques, fostering innovation and consolidating market positions. The diverse material and production options provide automakers with flexibility to optimize vehicle design for performance and sustainability.
Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Market Size (In Million)
Robust growth across various segments underscores the significant market expansion within the Asia-Pacific region. Demand for thermoset and thermoplastic polymers remains strong, driven by their widespread application. The increasing integration of carbon fiber composites, despite initial cost premiums, signals a long-term industry shift towards lighter, more fuel-efficient vehicles, propelled by stringent emission regulations and consumer demand for eco-friendly transportation. The versatility of automotive composites is evident in their diverse applications across vehicle components, playing a crucial role in shaping the future of automotive manufacturing. Continued expansion of the automotive industry in Asia-Pacific, coupled with ongoing technological advancements, positions this market for sustained strong growth.
Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Company Market Share
Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)
This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of the Asia-Pacific automotive composites market, offering valuable insights into market dynamics, growth drivers, competitive landscape, and future outlook. The study covers the period from 2019 to 2033, with 2025 as the base year and forecast extending to 2033. The report segments the market by production type, material type, and application type, providing granular data and analysis to support strategic decision-making. Key players like Nippon Sheet Glass Co Ltd, Teijin Limited, Delphi, Kineco, BASF, Caytec Industries Inc, Gurit, 3B-Fiberglass, Johns Manville, and Base Group are profiled, offering a detailed competitive landscape analysis. The total market size is predicted to reach xx Million by 2033.
Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Market Structure & Competitive Dynamics
The Asia-Pacific automotive composites market exhibits a moderately concentrated structure, with a few major players holding significant market share. The market is characterized by a dynamic innovation ecosystem, driven by advancements in material science and manufacturing technologies. Stringent regulatory frameworks concerning emissions and safety standards influence material selection and manufacturing processes. The market also witnesses considerable M&A activity, as larger players consolidate their position and expand their product portfolios. The competitive landscape is further shaped by the emergence of substitute materials and evolving end-user preferences toward lightweight and fuel-efficient vehicles.
- Market Concentration: The top five players hold approximately xx% of the market share in 2025.
- Innovation Ecosystems: Significant R&D investments are focused on developing high-strength, lightweight composites with improved durability and recyclability.
- Regulatory Frameworks: Emission regulations and safety standards are driving demand for lightweight composites, boosting market growth.
- Product Substitutes: Metals and other traditional materials continue to compete with composites, but technological advancements are enhancing the competitiveness of composites.
- End-User Trends: The increasing demand for fuel-efficient and lightweight vehicles fuels the growth of the automotive composites market.
- M&A Activities: Over the past five years, the market has witnessed xx M&A deals, with a total estimated value of xx Million. These deals primarily focus on expanding geographic reach and enhancing technological capabilities.
Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Industry Trends & Insights
The Asia-Pacific automotive composites market is experiencing robust growth, driven by several factors. The increasing demand for fuel-efficient vehicles, coupled with stringent government regulations on emissions, is a major driver. Technological advancements in composite materials, such as the development of high-strength carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRP), are also fueling market expansion. Furthermore, the rising adoption of lightweight composites in various automotive components, from structural assemblies to interior and exterior parts, contributes to market growth. The market is expected to witness a CAGR of xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033), with market penetration steadily increasing across various vehicle segments. The competitive dynamics are intense, with companies focusing on innovation, cost optimization, and strategic partnerships to maintain their market position.
Dominant Markets & Segments in Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market
China dominates the Asia-Pacific automotive composites market, driven by its large automotive production base and rapid economic growth. Japan and South Korea also hold significant market share. Within the segments:
- Production Type: Resin Transfer Molding (RTM) holds the largest market share, due to its cost-effectiveness and ability to produce high-quality parts.
- Material Type: Thermoset polymers dominate, due to their high strength-to-weight ratio and excellent mechanical properties. However, the use of carbon fiber and thermoplastic polymers is expected to increase significantly.
- Application Type: Structural assemblies represent the largest application segment, owing to their crucial role in vehicle safety and performance. Interior and exterior applications are also witnessing substantial growth.
Key Drivers for Dominant Segments:
- China's automotive industry growth: Rapid expansion of the automotive industry in China is a primary driver for the overall market growth.
- Government initiatives and policies: Favorable government policies promoting the use of lightweight materials in vehicles are further boosting the market.
- Rising disposable income: Increased disposable income in the region leads to higher vehicle ownership and demand.
- Technological advancements: Continued innovation in composite materials and manufacturing processes fuels adoption.
Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Product Innovations
Recent product innovations focus on developing high-performance composites with improved mechanical properties, durability, and recyclability. Companies are investing heavily in the development of advanced materials like carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastics (CFRTP), which offer a unique combination of high strength, lightweight, and recyclability. These innovations are aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of composites against traditional materials, while addressing environmental concerns. The market is witnessing a shift towards sustainable and recyclable composite materials to cater to the growing demand for eco-friendly vehicles.
Report Segmentation & Scope
This report segments the Asia-Pacific automotive composites market by:
Production Type: Hand Layup, Resin Transfer Molding (RTM), Vacuum Infusion Processing (VIP), Compression Molding. Each segment’s growth projections and market size are analyzed, with competitive dynamics within each sector assessed.
Material Type: Thermoset Polymer, Thermoplastic Polymer, Carbon Fiber, and Others. Market size and growth projections are provided for each material type, with an analysis of its strengths and limitations within the automotive context.
Application Type: Structural Assembly, Power Train Components, Interior, Exterior, and Others. The report analyzes the market size and growth rate for each application, highlighting competitive dynamics.
Key Drivers of Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Growth
Several factors drive the growth of the Asia-Pacific automotive composites market. Stringent government regulations on fuel efficiency and emissions are pushing automakers to adopt lightweight materials. The increasing demand for fuel-efficient and safer vehicles is also a major driver. Technological advancements in composite materials and manufacturing processes are contributing significantly to market expansion. Finally, the rising disposable income and increasing vehicle ownership across the region are further stimulating market growth.
Challenges in the Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Sector
Despite the considerable growth potential, the Asia-Pacific automotive composites market faces several challenges. High material costs and complex manufacturing processes can limit the adoption of composites, especially in price-sensitive segments. Supply chain disruptions and the availability of skilled labor can also impact market growth. Moreover, concerns about the recyclability of certain composite materials pose a challenge for the industry. The impact of these factors is estimated to reduce the market growth by approximately xx% by 2033.
Leading Players in the Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Market
- Nippon Sheet Glass Co Ltd
- Teijin Limited
- Delphi
- Kineco
- BASF
- Caytec Industries Inc
- Gurit
- 3B-Fiberglass
- Johns Manville
- Base Group
Key Developments in Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Sector
- January 2023: Teijin Limited announced the launch of a new high-strength carbon fiber composite material for automotive applications.
- June 2022: BASF partnered with a major automotive manufacturer to develop a sustainable composite material for electric vehicle battery casings.
- October 2021: A major M&A deal involving two key players consolidated their market share in the region. (Specific details are available in the full report).
Strategic Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Market Outlook
The Asia-Pacific automotive composites market presents significant growth opportunities for companies that can innovate, adapt to evolving regulations, and effectively manage supply chain challenges. The future of the market is closely linked to technological advancements, particularly in the development of sustainable and recyclable composite materials. Strategic partnerships and investments in R&D will be crucial for success in this dynamic market. The focus on electric vehicles and autonomous driving technology will further fuel the demand for lightweight and high-performance composites in the coming years.
Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Segmentation
-
1. Production Type
- 1.1. Hand Layup
- 1.2. Resin Transfer Molding
- 1.3. Vaccum Infusion Processing
- 1.4. Compression Molding
-
2. Material Type
- 2.1. Thermoset Polymer
- 2.2. Thermoplastic Polymer
- 2.3. Carbon Fiber
- 2.4. Others
-
3. Application Type
- 3.1. Structural Assembly
- 3.2. Power Train Components
- 3.3. Interior
- 3.4. Exterior
- 3.5. Others
Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. China
- 2. India
- 3. Japan
- 4. South Korea
- 5. Rest of Asia Pacific
Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Regional Market Share
Geographic Coverage of Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market
Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
| Aspects | Details |
|---|---|
| Study Period | 2020-2034 |
| Base Year | 2025 |
| Estimated Year | 2026 |
| Forecast Period | 2026-2034 |
| Historical Period | 2020-2025 |
| Growth Rate | CAGR of 11.6% from 2020-2034 |
| Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.2.1. Increasing Commercial Vehicle Sales to Foster the Growth of the Market
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. Fluctuations in Interest Rates to Hamper the Growth of the Market
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Trend to Decrease weight Driving Growth
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Type
- 5.1.1. Hand Layup
- 5.1.2. Resin Transfer Molding
- 5.1.3. Vaccum Infusion Processing
- 5.1.4. Compression Molding
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Material Type
- 5.2.1. Thermoset Polymer
- 5.2.2. Thermoplastic Polymer
- 5.2.3. Carbon Fiber
- 5.2.4. Others
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application Type
- 5.3.1. Structural Assembly
- 5.3.2. Power Train Components
- 5.3.3. Interior
- 5.3.4. Exterior
- 5.3.5. Others
- 5.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.4.1. China
- 5.4.2. India
- 5.4.3. Japan
- 5.4.4. South Korea
- 5.4.5. Rest of Asia Pacific
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Type
- 6. China Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Type
- 6.1.1. Hand Layup
- 6.1.2. Resin Transfer Molding
- 6.1.3. Vaccum Infusion Processing
- 6.1.4. Compression Molding
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Material Type
- 6.2.1. Thermoset Polymer
- 6.2.2. Thermoplastic Polymer
- 6.2.3. Carbon Fiber
- 6.2.4. Others
- 6.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application Type
- 6.3.1. Structural Assembly
- 6.3.2. Power Train Components
- 6.3.3. Interior
- 6.3.4. Exterior
- 6.3.5. Others
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Type
- 7. India Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Type
- 7.1.1. Hand Layup
- 7.1.2. Resin Transfer Molding
- 7.1.3. Vaccum Infusion Processing
- 7.1.4. Compression Molding
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Material Type
- 7.2.1. Thermoset Polymer
- 7.2.2. Thermoplastic Polymer
- 7.2.3. Carbon Fiber
- 7.2.4. Others
- 7.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application Type
- 7.3.1. Structural Assembly
- 7.3.2. Power Train Components
- 7.3.3. Interior
- 7.3.4. Exterior
- 7.3.5. Others
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Type
- 8. Japan Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Type
- 8.1.1. Hand Layup
- 8.1.2. Resin Transfer Molding
- 8.1.3. Vaccum Infusion Processing
- 8.1.4. Compression Molding
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Material Type
- 8.2.1. Thermoset Polymer
- 8.2.2. Thermoplastic Polymer
- 8.2.3. Carbon Fiber
- 8.2.4. Others
- 8.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application Type
- 8.3.1. Structural Assembly
- 8.3.2. Power Train Components
- 8.3.3. Interior
- 8.3.4. Exterior
- 8.3.5. Others
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Type
- 9. South Korea Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Type
- 9.1.1. Hand Layup
- 9.1.2. Resin Transfer Molding
- 9.1.3. Vaccum Infusion Processing
- 9.1.4. Compression Molding
- 9.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Material Type
- 9.2.1. Thermoset Polymer
- 9.2.2. Thermoplastic Polymer
- 9.2.3. Carbon Fiber
- 9.2.4. Others
- 9.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application Type
- 9.3.1. Structural Assembly
- 9.3.2. Power Train Components
- 9.3.3. Interior
- 9.3.4. Exterior
- 9.3.5. Others
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Type
- 10. Rest of Asia Pacific Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Type
- 10.1.1. Hand Layup
- 10.1.2. Resin Transfer Molding
- 10.1.3. Vaccum Infusion Processing
- 10.1.4. Compression Molding
- 10.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Material Type
- 10.2.1. Thermoset Polymer
- 10.2.2. Thermoplastic Polymer
- 10.2.3. Carbon Fiber
- 10.2.4. Others
- 10.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application Type
- 10.3.1. Structural Assembly
- 10.3.2. Power Train Components
- 10.3.3. Interior
- 10.3.4. Exterior
- 10.3.5. Others
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Type
- 11. Competitive Analysis
- 11.1. Market Share Analysis 2025
- 11.2. Company Profiles
- 11.2.1 Nippon Sheet Glass Co Ltd
- 11.2.1.1. Overview
- 11.2.1.2. Products
- 11.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.2 Teijin Limited
- 11.2.2.1. Overview
- 11.2.2.2. Products
- 11.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.3 Delphi
- 11.2.3.1. Overview
- 11.2.3.2. Products
- 11.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.4 Kineco
- 11.2.4.1. Overview
- 11.2.4.2. Products
- 11.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.5 BASF
- 11.2.5.1. Overview
- 11.2.5.2. Products
- 11.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.6 Caytec Industries Inc
- 11.2.6.1. Overview
- 11.2.6.2. Products
- 11.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.7 Gurit
- 11.2.7.1. Overview
- 11.2.7.2. Products
- 11.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.8 3B-Fiberglass
- 11.2.8.1. Overview
- 11.2.8.2. Products
- 11.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.9 Johns Manville
- 11.2.9.1. Overview
- 11.2.9.2. Products
- 11.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.10 Base Group
- 11.2.10.1. Overview
- 11.2.10.2. Products
- 11.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 11.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 11.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 11.2.1 Nippon Sheet Glass Co Ltd
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Revenue Breakdown (million, %) by Product 2025 & 2033
- Figure 2: Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Share (%) by Company 2025
List of Tables
- Table 1: Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Revenue million Forecast, by Production Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 2: Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Revenue million Forecast, by Material Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 3: Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Revenue million Forecast, by Application Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 4: Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Revenue million Forecast, by Region 2020 & 2033
- Table 5: Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Revenue million Forecast, by Production Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 6: Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Revenue million Forecast, by Material Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 7: Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Revenue million Forecast, by Application Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 8: Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Revenue million Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 9: Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Revenue million Forecast, by Production Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 10: Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Revenue million Forecast, by Material Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 11: Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Revenue million Forecast, by Application Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 12: Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Revenue million Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 13: Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Revenue million Forecast, by Production Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 14: Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Revenue million Forecast, by Material Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 15: Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Revenue million Forecast, by Application Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 16: Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Revenue million Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 17: Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Revenue million Forecast, by Production Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 18: Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Revenue million Forecast, by Material Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 19: Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Revenue million Forecast, by Application Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 20: Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Revenue million Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
- Table 21: Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Revenue million Forecast, by Production Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 22: Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Revenue million Forecast, by Material Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 23: Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Revenue million Forecast, by Application Type 2020 & 2033
- Table 24: Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market Revenue million Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 11.6%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market?
Key companies in the market include Nippon Sheet Glass Co Ltd, Teijin Limited, Delphi, Kineco, BASF, Caytec Industries Inc, Gurit, 3B-Fiberglass, Johns Manville, Base Group.
3. What are the main segments of the Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market?
The market segments include Production Type, Material Type, Application Type.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD XXX million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
Increasing Commercial Vehicle Sales to Foster the Growth of the Market.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Trend to Decrease weight Driving Growth.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Fluctuations in Interest Rates to Hamper the Growth of the Market.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
N/A
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 4750, USD 4950, and USD 6800 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in million.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Asia-Pacific Automotive Composites Market, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.
Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database
Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)
Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations
Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence