EU issues initiative to enhance chemical competitiveness
In response to the shifting global chemical industry landscape, the European Commission has taken a proactive step by forming a Senior Expert Group focused on enhancing the competitiveness of the EU’s chemical sector. As the industry's center of gravity moves toward the Middle East and Asia-Pacific, the European chemical and petrochemical sectors are under increasing pressure from emerging economies. Despite holding a 30% share of global chemical sales, the EU is now facing uncertainty as its traditional dominance is challenged.
To address these challenges, the European Commission launched a high-level expert group as part of the Lisbon Strategy in 2005. This initiative aims to strengthen the overall competitiveness of EU manufacturing, with the chemical industry being a key focus. While the expert group serves as an advisory body without formal decision-making power, it represents a significant step toward closer collaboration between the EU institutions and the chemical industry.
The group comprises top professionals from various sectors, including representatives from the European Commission, EU member states, leading chemical companies like BASF, Arkema, Shell, and Total, as well as academics, trade associations, and environmental organizations. This diverse composition ensures that the discussions cover a wide range of perspectives, from large corporations to smaller players.
After a comprehensive review of major European chemical companies, the expert group identified several critical factors affecting the industry’s future—energy efficiency, innovation, and science education. These insights highlight the need for strategic adjustments within the EU chemical sector to maintain its competitive edge.
With global climate change and rising competition from new ethylene plants in the Middle East and Asia, the EU must find ways to reduce production costs and improve infrastructure. However, rapid upgrades to existing facilities remain challenging. The expert group will analyze these issues and provide policy recommendations to support sustainable development.
Over the next few years, the group will hold multiple meetings, with the latest scheduled for early 2009. Industry leaders are optimistic about the potential impact of this initiative, believing it can help reshape the future of the European chemical industry. The European Chemicals Committee also sees positive value in the expert group’s work, emphasizing its role in guiding the sector toward long-term sustainability.
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