The innovative power of the chemical industry assembled

From cosmetics to medical treatments, from agriculture to the fabrics that make out our clothes – chemistry is ubiquitously needed in countless industries. To discuss the impact, figure out new more sustainable methods of production, and to build partnerships across the globe, 4,152 trade visitors from 62 countries gathered in Basel. The who is who of the European chemistry industry and beyond met on the 6,672.5 m² floor of the 36^th International Exhibition for Fine and Speciality Chemicals on May 24^th-25^th in Basel, Switzerland, discussing recyclability of (precious) metals, sustainability in production as well as packaging, cost and catalyst efficiency and productivity. 353 exhibitors, from 24 countries, presented their innovativations and bespoke solutions in 43 conference sessions, which provided insights into current challenges and opportunities of different fine and speciality chemicals sectors.

“It was great to see such positive results, which confirm that the show is growing again and marks its importance in the industry as the ideal marketplace to present the diversification and future trends of the fine and speciality chemicals sector” comments Christiane Beck, Event Manager of Chemspec Europe, and on behalf of RX, organiser of the event. 

The four lecture theatres – dividing the discussions held into topics of agrochemical, pharmaceuticals, and the regulatory services in Pharma as well as the theatre of the Royal Society of Chemistry – held a space for companies to present their work and incentives. Start-up presentations, shared insight, highlighted ideas and approaches on carbon capture and use, digitalisation, green chemistry supply chain solutions, market strategies and industry developments. The matchmaking program allowed visitors to determine the specific products or services and meet with exhibitors providing the needed business solutions. The Chemspec exhibition floor also gave the opportunity to advance their employer branding idea behind companies in the Chemspec Careers Clinic, where expert advice on hiring and career aspirations within the sector were readily provided to the visiting companies. 

The innovative power of the chemical industry as well as the importance of sharing the insights on the pharmaceutical industry landscape and international regulations were a big takeaway of this exhibition and left many with the hope that we might soon go from “dream green” to “act green”, as Dr Hans Donkervoort, the Global Marketing Manager of the BASF Netherlands BV very fittingly said.