It is with great pleasure and anticipation that we announce the International Desalination Association (IDA) will commence the World Congress on the 20-25th of October 2013 in Tianjin, China at the new Meijiang Convention and Exhibition Center. This is the first time that the IDA will present its premier event in Tianjin - the 6th largest city and gateway to the People’s Republic of China. Tianjin is located along the Bohai Sea, 120 kilometers southeast of Beijing; Tianjin represents the largest center of industry and trade in North China.The World Congress will offer delegates unmatched opportunities to expand knowledge of current and future desalination technologies; engage with colleagues from around the world; and create new and important connections to build business. Gain new insights, share ideas and discover the vibrancy, history and culture of China, one of the world’s emerging desalination markets.Our Technical Program committee will be spearheaded by Co-Chairmen, Mr. KHOO Teng Chye and Professor WANG Shi Chang, two global pioneers in desalination. Mr. KHOO is an IDA Director and currently the Executive Directorof the Centre for Liveable Cities, Ministry of National Development in Singapore. Prof. WANG, also an IDA Director, holds a distinguished position at the Chemical Engineering Research Center, School of Chemical Engineering and Technologies, and is Director of the Desalination and Membrane Technology Center at Tianjin University. We welcome and encourage you to participate in shaping this preeminent event by submitting your previously unpublished, unique and innovative works for consideration. The program covers an extensive range of topics in 2013.