Chemical supply chain calls on EU-UK summi…

With geopolitical tensions and global instability in the spotlight, it is not just tarrifs that should be high on the agenda at the upcoming EU-UK Summit – an event designed to help reset the UK’s relationship with the EU. The Chemical Business Association (CBA) is calling on leaders at the event, taking place on 19^th May, to broaden the agenda and put UK REACH high on the list of subjects to discuss.

Tim Doggett, Chief Executive Officer of the CBA, the voice of the chemical supply chain, strongly believes it is in both the UK’s and EU’s interests for UK REACH to be finalised. Given recent shifts in geopolitics, the UK and the EU have a strong shared incentive to reinforce cooperation.

Mr Doggett said: “There are many areas that need to be addressed to reduce barriers to trade and finalising UK REACH is one thing that is crtical for both the UK and EU.”

“Before Brexit, the EU was the UK’s largest chemical trading partner, accounting for 60% of exports and 70% of importsⁱ. However, the Brexit process failed to sufficiently take into account the impact on business,,and the introduction of UK REACH disrupted long-standing supply chains, creating barriers to trade and increased costs, prompting some companies to relocate to the EU or withdraw from the UK-EU market altogether.”

The CBA, which has been at the forefront of the UK’s chemical supply chain for over a century, has been working tirelessly to make Government aware of the impact of UK REACH, not only on the chemical supply chain and the wider chemical sector, but also on downstream users who were previously not in the scope of the regulation.

The Association has persistently lobbied Government on UK REACH’s operability and practicality also the impact of duplicate testing and costs. With some success achieved through the extension of deadlines and an agreement to consult on an alternative model, it continues to work with multiple stakeholders towards a workable solution.

It has also been providing expert advice and input to various working groups, while supporting members with online consultations and a one-to-one advice service through its Helpdesk. Additonally, it has hosted several oversubscribed UK REACH Online Clinics –open to members and non-members alike – highlighting the importance of the issue for the industry.

Mr Doggett added: ‘We have consistently emphasised from the outset that UK REACH presents significant challenges, creating a major barrier to trade, business, and investment. Despite the first major breakthrough, all the way back in December 2021 – progress has been frustrating and painfully slow – and we are still waiting for meaningful resolution and clarity on key aspects.”

“The challenges created by UK REACH don’t simply impact the chemical supply chain and the wider chemical industry, but the wider economy and the UK’s global competitiveness. Our members truly hope the strategic importance of the sector and the long-term impact of UK REACH across all industries are debated at the summit with a view to finding a workable, pragmatic solution.”

“Collaboration between industry stakeholders is essential to effectively address the current challenges and bring stability to the supply chain. With this in mind the CBA will be lobbying and working closely with Government and stakeholders on both sides – not only in the lead-up to the Summit but well beyond it – to ensure that our members’ voices are heard and that practical, sustainable solutions are prioritised,” Doggett concluded.