According to the China 3-D Printing Technology Industry Alliance, the market value of the world's 3-D printing industry doubled in 2013 to reach $4 billion, among which $300 million was contributed by China. David Reis, chief executive officer of another industry leader Stratasys, said the output of 3-D printers rose by 25 percent in 2014.

Van der Schueren said that when Materialise entered the Chinese market, there was a lot of experimentation going on in the 3-D printing industry, but with very few real targets.

In the early years, Materiliase even had to compete with conventional prototyping, which takes a lot of handwork.

But over time, fundamental changes have taken place in China, he said. The technology of 3-D printing is now better perceived, and there is certain level of maturity in the market. Chinese companies, especially machine makers, have also realized that it is important to develop core competencies, much like their US or European peers, if they want to export their products.

Van der Schueren believes that at a time when China is slowing down its economic growth, 3-D printing companies need to be more inventive and diversified and focus on niche industries.

"China has diverted its focus from exports to its internal market, which is correct. 3-D printing is a more localized product. If you have a local market, you have more diversity and personalization. These are the things you do in a local market rather than for the overseas markets," he said.

Q&A: BART VANDER SCHUEREN

What are your hobbies?

I like mountain biking. More importantly, I like to do physical exercises especially when I am out with my friends in the countryside.

What is the saying that you like the most?

Always look on the bright sight of life.

What is your greatest fear?

I am really concerned about the environment. We are consuming so much natural resources that the future of our children is at stake.

What do you value the most in your friends?

Loyalty. A true friend is someone who is with you in good and difficult times.

What kind of "green" lifestyle do you practice?

At home, and at work, I try to avoid wasting energy. I have switched to light emitting diode devices at home, and I will switch off energy-consuming appliances when I don't need them. I would love to do more than what I am doing now for energy conservation. Rather than taking my car to go to work, I would like to take my bicycle.