Key Insights
The North American powder coatings market, valued at $1.57 billion in 2025, is projected to experience steady growth, driven by increasing demand across various sectors. A Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.00% from 2025 to 2033 indicates a consistent expansion. Key drivers include the growing preference for sustainable and environmentally friendly coatings due to their lower VOC emissions compared to liquid paints. The automotive industry, a major end-user, is a significant contributor to this growth, fueled by the rising popularity of electric vehicles and the need for durable, corrosion-resistant finishes. Furthermore, the architectural and decorative segments are experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing demand for aesthetically pleasing and long-lasting coatings in buildings and infrastructure. While the market faces some constraints such as the high initial investment costs associated with powder coating equipment and potential challenges related to color limitations compared to liquid paints, these are largely offset by the long-term cost savings and environmental benefits. The market segmentation reveals a diverse range of resin types, with acrylic, epoxy, polyester, and polyurethane being the most prominent, catering to specific application requirements. Major players like Sherwin-Williams, PPG Industries, and Akzo Nobel are driving innovation and competition, further contributing to market expansion.
The forecast period (2025-2033) anticipates continued growth, particularly in niche applications within the industrial and other end-user sectors (furniture, appliances). The North American market's dominance is expected to persist, with the United States and Canada leading the charge. However, Mexico presents a significant growth opportunity due to increasing industrialization and infrastructural development. Technological advancements, such as the development of new resin formulations with enhanced performance characteristics and improved application methods, are expected to further propel the market’s growth trajectory. The focus on sustainability and eco-friendly solutions will continue to be a major factor influencing both consumer demand and manufacturers' innovation strategies. Therefore, the North American powder coatings market presents a stable and attractive investment opportunity with promising prospects for future growth.

North America Powder Coatings Market: A Comprehensive Report (2019-2033)
This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of the North America powder coatings market, offering actionable insights for industry stakeholders. Covering the period from 2019 to 2033, with a focus on 2025, this report unveils market dynamics, leading players, and future growth opportunities. The market is projected to reach xx Million by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033). This report is essential for businesses seeking to understand the competitive landscape, identify lucrative segments, and formulate winning strategies in this dynamic market.
North America Powder Coatings Market Dynamics & Concentration
The North America powder coatings market is characterized by a moderately consolidated landscape with a handful of major players holding significant market share. The market share of the top five players is estimated at xx%, with The Sherwin-Williams Company, PPG Industries Inc., Akzo Nobel N.V., BASF SE, and RPM International Inc. among the leading competitors. Market concentration is influenced by factors such as economies of scale, technological advancements, and strategic mergers and acquisitions (M&A). The historical period (2019-2024) witnessed xx M&A deals, primarily driven by the need to expand geographic reach and product portfolios.
- Innovation Drivers: Ongoing R&D efforts focus on developing sustainable, high-performance powder coatings with enhanced durability, corrosion resistance, and aesthetic appeal.
- Regulatory Frameworks: Stringent environmental regulations, particularly concerning VOC emissions, are shaping the market towards eco-friendly solutions.
- Product Substitutes: Competition from liquid coatings remains a challenge, but the advantages of powder coatings in terms of efficiency and sustainability are driving market growth.
- End-User Trends: Growing demand from the architectural and industrial sectors, coupled with increasing automotive applications requiring specialized coatings, is fueling market expansion.
North America Powder Coatings Market Industry Trends & Analysis
The North America powder coatings market is experiencing robust growth, driven by several key factors. The increasing adoption of powder coatings across various end-use industries, coupled with technological advancements leading to improved product performance and cost-effectiveness, are key growth catalysts. Consumer preferences are shifting towards sustainable and aesthetically pleasing coatings, which is further boosting market demand. The market penetration rate of powder coatings is estimated at xx% in 2025, with projections indicating significant growth in the coming years. The automotive segment is expected to witness significant growth, owing to the rising demand for eco-friendly vehicles and increasing focus on lightweighting. The increasing construction activities across the region are further augmenting the demand for powder coatings in the architectural and decorative segments. Competitive dynamics are characterized by intense rivalry among major players, leading to strategic initiatives like product innovation, capacity expansion, and mergers & acquisitions.

Leading Markets & Segments in North America Powder Coatings Market
The United States holds the dominant position in the North America powder coatings market, followed by Canada and Mexico. Within the resin type segment, polyester powder coatings currently hold the largest market share, driven by their versatility and cost-effectiveness across various applications. The industrial end-user segment is the largest contributor to overall market revenue, owing to high demand from various sectors including appliances, furniture, and metal fabrication.
Key Drivers for the United States Market:
- Robust industrial sector and manufacturing base.
- Strong construction activities and infrastructure development.
- Favorable economic policies supporting industrial growth.
Key Drivers for the Polyester Resin Segment:
- Superior performance characteristics such as durability and corrosion resistance.
- Cost-effectiveness compared to other resin types.
- Wide range of color and finish options.
Key Drivers for the Industrial End-User Segment:
- High demand from various industries, including appliances, furniture, and metal fabrication.
- Growing preference for durable and long-lasting coatings.
- Increasing adoption of powder coating technology to enhance product aesthetics and performance.
North America Powder Coatings Market Product Developments
Recent product innovations focus on developing eco-friendly powder coatings with reduced VOC emissions and improved performance characteristics. Companies are also focusing on expanding their product portfolios to cater to specific end-user needs, such as high-temperature resistance, UV protection, and enhanced aesthetic appeal. These developments are contributing to increased market penetration and driving adoption across various applications.
Key Drivers of North America Powder Coatings Market Growth
The growth of the North America powder coatings market is propelled by several key factors:
- Technological advancements: The development of new and improved powder coating technologies with enhanced properties is accelerating market growth.
- Economic growth: Expanding construction, automotive, and industrial sectors are driving increased demand.
- Favorable government regulations: Policies promoting sustainable manufacturing practices boost the adoption of eco-friendly powder coatings.
Challenges in the North America Powder Coatings Market
The North America powder coatings market faces several challenges:
- Fluctuating raw material prices: Increases in the cost of raw materials like resins and pigments impact profitability.
- Supply chain disruptions: Global events can cause shortages and delays, affecting production.
- Intense competition: The presence of numerous players creates a highly competitive landscape.
Emerging Opportunities in North America Powder Coatings Market
The North America powder coatings market presents promising opportunities for long-term growth. The emergence of innovative coating technologies, strategic partnerships, and expansion into new markets, coupled with increasing demand for sustainable solutions, create an attractive environment for investment and market expansion.
Leading Players in the North America Powder Coatings Market Sector
- The Sherwin-Williams Company
- FERRO ARTE DE MEXICO
- Jotun
- RPM International Inc
- Evonik Industries AG
- PPG Industries Inc
- Nippon Paint Holdings Co Ltd
- BASF SE
- Akzo Nobel N V
- Asian Paints Limited
- Axalta Coating Systems LLC
- Kansai Paint Co Ltd
Key Milestones in North America Powder Coatings Market Industry
- August 2022: PPG Industries Inc. announced an USD 11 Million investment to double the production capacity of its powder coatings plant in San Juan del Rio, Mexico. This expansion significantly increases supply to meet growing demand in the region.
- May 2022: AkzoNobel Powder Coatings launched a range of ready-to-ship (RTS) powder coatings for the North American market, addressing the need for quick turnaround times in urgent projects.
Strategic Outlook for North America Powder Coatings Market
The North America powder coatings market is poised for continued growth, driven by technological innovation, increasing demand from diverse end-use sectors, and a growing emphasis on sustainability. Strategic partnerships, capacity expansions, and product diversification will be crucial for players to maintain competitiveness and capitalize on emerging opportunities. Focus on developing high-performance, eco-friendly coatings will be essential for long-term success in this dynamic market.
North America Powder Coatings Market Segmentation
-
1. Resin Type
- 1.1. Acrylic
- 1.2. Epoxy
- 1.3. Polyester
- 1.4. Polyurethane
- 1.5. Epoxy-Polyester
- 1.6. Other Re
-
2. End-user Industry
- 2.1. Architecture and Decorative
- 2.2. Automotive
- 2.3. Industrial
- 2.4. Other En
-
3. Geography
- 3.1. United States
- 3.2. Canada
- 3.3. Mexico
North America Powder Coatings Market Segmentation By Geography
- 1. United States
- 2. Canada
- 3. Mexico

North America Powder Coatings Market REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
Aspects | Details |
---|---|
Study Period | 2019-2033 |
Base Year | 2024 |
Estimated Year | 2025 |
Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
Historical Period | 2019-2024 |
Growth Rate | CAGR of 4.00% from 2019-2033 |
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. The Increasing Usage of Powder Coatings in Automotive Industry; The Favorable Government Initiatives Promoting the Use of Powder Coatings; Recycling Property of Powder Coatings
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. Difficulty in Obtaining Thin Film of Powder Coating; Other Restraints
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Growing Demand from Automotive Segment
- 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. North America Powder Coatings Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Resin Type
- 5.1.1. Acrylic
- 5.1.2. Epoxy
- 5.1.3. Polyester
- 5.1.4. Polyurethane
- 5.1.5. Epoxy-Polyester
- 5.1.6. Other Re
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-user Industry
- 5.2.1. Architecture and Decorative
- 5.2.2. Automotive
- 5.2.3. Industrial
- 5.2.4. Other En
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 5.3.1. United States
- 5.3.2. Canada
- 5.3.3. Mexico
- 5.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.4.1. United States
- 5.4.2. Canada
- 5.4.3. Mexico
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Resin Type
- 6. United States North America Powder Coatings Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Resin Type
- 6.1.1. Acrylic
- 6.1.2. Epoxy
- 6.1.3. Polyester
- 6.1.4. Polyurethane
- 6.1.5. Epoxy-Polyester
- 6.1.6. Other Re
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-user Industry
- 6.2.1. Architecture and Decorative
- 6.2.2. Automotive
- 6.2.3. Industrial
- 6.2.4. Other En
- 6.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 6.3.1. United States
- 6.3.2. Canada
- 6.3.3. Mexico
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Resin Type
- 7. Canada North America Powder Coatings Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Resin Type
- 7.1.1. Acrylic
- 7.1.2. Epoxy
- 7.1.3. Polyester
- 7.1.4. Polyurethane
- 7.1.5. Epoxy-Polyester
- 7.1.6. Other Re
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-user Industry
- 7.2.1. Architecture and Decorative
- 7.2.2. Automotive
- 7.2.3. Industrial
- 7.2.4. Other En
- 7.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 7.3.1. United States
- 7.3.2. Canada
- 7.3.3. Mexico
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Resin Type
- 8. Mexico North America Powder Coatings Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Resin Type
- 8.1.1. Acrylic
- 8.1.2. Epoxy
- 8.1.3. Polyester
- 8.1.4. Polyurethane
- 8.1.5. Epoxy-Polyester
- 8.1.6. Other Re
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-user Industry
- 8.2.1. Architecture and Decorative
- 8.2.2. Automotive
- 8.2.3. Industrial
- 8.2.4. Other En
- 8.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 8.3.1. United States
- 8.3.2. Canada
- 8.3.3. Mexico
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Resin Type
- 9. United States North America Powder Coatings Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10. Canada North America Powder Coatings Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11. Mexico North America Powder Coatings Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12. Rest of North America North America Powder Coatings Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 13. Competitive Analysis
- 13.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 13.2. Company Profiles
- 13.2.1 The Sherwin-Williams Company*List Not Exhaustive
- 13.2.1.1. Overview
- 13.2.1.2. Products
- 13.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.2 FERRO ARTE DE MEXICO
- 13.2.2.1. Overview
- 13.2.2.2. Products
- 13.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.3 Jotun
- 13.2.3.1. Overview
- 13.2.3.2. Products
- 13.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.4 RPM International Inc
- 13.2.4.1. Overview
- 13.2.4.2. Products
- 13.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.5 Evonik Industries AG
- 13.2.5.1. Overview
- 13.2.5.2. Products
- 13.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.6 PPG Industries Inc
- 13.2.6.1. Overview
- 13.2.6.2. Products
- 13.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.7 Nippon Paint Holdings Co Ltd
- 13.2.7.1. Overview
- 13.2.7.2. Products
- 13.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.8 BASF SE
- 13.2.8.1. Overview
- 13.2.8.2. Products
- 13.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.9 Akzo Nobel N V
- 13.2.9.1. Overview
- 13.2.9.2. Products
- 13.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.10 Asian Paints Limited
- 13.2.10.1. Overview
- 13.2.10.2. Products
- 13.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.11 Axalta Coating Systems LLC
- 13.2.11.1. Overview
- 13.2.11.2. Products
- 13.2.11.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.11.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.11.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.12 Kansai Paint Co Ltd
- 13.2.12.1. Overview
- 13.2.12.2. Products
- 13.2.12.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.12.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.12.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.1 The Sherwin-Williams Company*List Not Exhaustive
List of Figures
- Figure 1: North America Powder Coatings Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: North America Powder Coatings Market Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: North America Powder Coatings Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: North America Powder Coatings Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: North America Powder Coatings Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Resin Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: North America Powder Coatings Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Resin Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: North America Powder Coatings Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-user Industry 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: North America Powder Coatings Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by End-user Industry 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: North America Powder Coatings Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: North America Powder Coatings Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: North America Powder Coatings Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: North America Powder Coatings Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: North America Powder Coatings Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: North America Powder Coatings Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: United States North America Powder Coatings Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: United States North America Powder Coatings Market Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Canada North America Powder Coatings Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Canada North America Powder Coatings Market Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Mexico North America Powder Coatings Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Mexico North America Powder Coatings Market Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Rest of North America North America Powder Coatings Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: Rest of North America North America Powder Coatings Market Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: North America Powder Coatings Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Resin Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: North America Powder Coatings Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Resin Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: North America Powder Coatings Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-user Industry 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: North America Powder Coatings Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by End-user Industry 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: North America Powder Coatings Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: North America Powder Coatings Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: North America Powder Coatings Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: North America Powder Coatings Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: North America Powder Coatings Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Resin Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 30: North America Powder Coatings Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Resin Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 31: North America Powder Coatings Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-user Industry 2019 & 2032
- Table 32: North America Powder Coatings Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by End-user Industry 2019 & 2032
- Table 33: North America Powder Coatings Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 34: North America Powder Coatings Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 35: North America Powder Coatings Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 36: North America Powder Coatings Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 37: North America Powder Coatings Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Resin Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 38: North America Powder Coatings Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Resin Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 39: North America Powder Coatings Market Revenue Million Forecast, by End-user Industry 2019 & 2032
- Table 40: North America Powder Coatings Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by End-user Industry 2019 & 2032
- Table 41: North America Powder Coatings Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 42: North America Powder Coatings Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 43: North America Powder Coatings Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 44: North America Powder Coatings Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the North America Powder Coatings Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 4.00%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the North America Powder Coatings Market?
Key companies in the market include The Sherwin-Williams Company*List Not Exhaustive, FERRO ARTE DE MEXICO, Jotun, RPM International Inc, Evonik Industries AG, PPG Industries Inc, Nippon Paint Holdings Co Ltd, BASF SE, Akzo Nobel N V, Asian Paints Limited, Axalta Coating Systems LLC, Kansai Paint Co Ltd.
3. What are the main segments of the North America Powder Coatings Market?
The market segments include Resin Type, End-user Industry, Geography.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD 1.57 Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
The Increasing Usage of Powder Coatings in Automotive Industry; The Favorable Government Initiatives Promoting the Use of Powder Coatings; Recycling Property of Powder Coatings.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Growing Demand from Automotive Segment.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Difficulty in Obtaining Thin Film of Powder Coating; Other Restraints.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
August 2022: PPG Industries Inc. announced an investment of USD 11 million to double the production capacity of its powder coatings plant in San Juan del Rio, Mexico. The expansion project was expected to be completed by mid-2023 and was to allow the plant to meet the expected future demand for powder coatings in Mexico.
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 5250, and USD 8750 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 and volume, measured in K Tons.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "North America Powder Coatings 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 North America Powder Coatings 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 North America Powder Coatings Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the North America Powder Coatings 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