The present invention relates to thermosetting powder coating compositions comprising of at least one bismuth-containing inorganic pigment, at least one organic phosphorous stabilizer, at least one thermally polymerizable thermosetting powder coating resin and at least one crosslinker. The inventive thermosetting powder coating compositions are advantageously used where there is a need for heat resistant coatings and where only minor surface modifications during over bake conditions are acceptable. The invention also relates to the use of the inventive thermosetting powder coating compositions for the preparation of powdered paints and varnishes for the making of coatings and to coatings obtained therewith.