In April 2001 the first conference took placed organised by CENDI, the Mexican Stainless Steel Development Association (Centro Nacional para el Desarrollo del Acero Inoxidable). CEDINOX, the Spanish stainless steel association was represented, as were the companies SASSDA (South Africa), EUROINOX (Italy) MEXINOX (Mexico), NiDI (North America) and KTS (Germany). CENDI is a non-profit organisation founded to promote and develop the consumption of stainless steel in Mexico. It focuses on investigation, development and promotion. Among its functions are: investigation of new applications; uncovering new business opportunities for its members; and maintaining close relationships with schools and universities and also with international stainless steel professional organisations. Other activities include: public advocacy of stainless steel use, including lobbying of government; holding of workshops, seminars, training courses and an annual conference; providing technical assistance; publishing; and setting up a research centre.