- The EU Critical Chemicals Alliance was launched by the European Commission to modernize Europe's chemical industry.
- The first General Assembly was held on 13 January at Chemelot Chemical Park in the Netherlands.
- Key challenges discussed include plant closures, unfair trade practices, and the need for investment in production capacities.
- Efforts will focus on mapping critical sites and molecules to prioritize investments and enhance monitoring.
EU Critical Chemicals Alliance
The EU Critical Chemicals Alliance, initiated by the European Commission, aims to strengthen and modernize Europe's chemical industry. It plays a crucial role in implementing the European Chemicals Industry Action Plan, which seeks to enhance competitiveness, resilience, and sustainability in the sector.
First General Assembly
On 13 January, the Alliance held its first General Assembly at the Chemelot Chemical Park in the Netherlands. The event gathered Member States, regional representatives, industry leaders, and stakeholders to discuss solutions for bolstering the EU chemical industry's market strength and adaptability.
Key Challenges
Discussions at the Assembly, facilitated by the European Commission's Director General, Kerstin Jorna, focused on challenges such as increasing plant closures, unfair global trade practices, and the urgent need for investment to maintain critical production capacities. The meeting also addressed the necessity to create demand for European-made chemical products.
Future Efforts
The Alliance will work on defining criteria for identifying essential chemical production sites and molecules for Europe's economy. These efforts aim to prioritize investments and safeguard rare or irreplaceable production capabilities. Additionally, the systematic mapping of critical molecules will support enhanced monitoring under the Customs Surveillance System, supply diversification strategies, and potential future legislation.
