Ref. Ares(2021)5604108
Ref. Ares(2022)4720390 - 28/06/2022
they cannot control.
- Commissioner Reynders stressed that in the absence of an EU framework, a multitude
of different national laws and sector-specific EU rules would emerge. An EU framework
would prevent fragmentation in the EU and create a level playing field. An initiative
aimed at preventing and combating child and forced labour in corporate value chains
must go beyond tier 1 suppliers. Beyond tier 1, however, different requirements would
apply to companies, due diligence would entail an obligation of means. As regards
timing, if the Commission adopts a proposal by the end of the year, an agreement with
the European Parliament and with the Council may be reached by the end of 2023. Due
to the transposition deadline, a directive could then possibly enter into force in 2025.
Discussions on due diligence legislation, both at national and EU level, are mainly taking
place in the western and northern EU member states.
- Cefic plans to provide information to the Commission and join the debate about the
elements of the initiative.
Fit for 55:
- The Commission’s Fit for 55 package has considerable impacts on the chemical industry.
There are too many topics at that same time, CO2-related measures heavily hit the
chemical industry, in particular the small companies. Cefic would appreciate a sectoral
deal with a clear roadmap.
- The recent Shell-judgment has kept companies in the sector wondering what will come
next. Member States have to provide the conditions for companies to reach the climate
goals. Member States such as Germany do not have enough renewable energy and will
fail to reach the targets. Companies may start suing governments for failing to provide
the necessary pre-conditions for companies to comply with their own obligations.
Ultimately, there is a risk of a multiplication of lawsuits.
- Cefic has concerns about CBAM enforcement, including the lack of sufficient customs
controls.
Other topics:
- As regards the Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability, Cefic considers that this is a
considerable change of approach and that the Commission underestimates the impact
this will have on the industry. Cefic is preparing an impact assessment including data
from 300 companies that will be ready by the end of the year.
- Commissioner Reynders invited Cefic members to take part in the Green Consumption
Pledge initiative.
- The discussions about the EU-US Privacy Shield are very relevant for the chemicals
sector, but the main issue is data security and the protection of data from government
interference. This is why we are assessing solutions to avoid the transfers of the most
sensitive data.
