Jul 29, 2025
The year 2025 marks a significant turning point for chemical compliance in the European paints and coatings industry. For years, raw material challenges in the coatings industry have disrupted production, driven up costs, and strained supply chains. Now, with tightening rules around PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), microplastics, and biocides, procurement teams are facing a new kind of complexity that goes well beyond pricing and availability.
Why Regulatory Pressure Is Increasing in the Coatings Industry
For years, PFAS and microplastic ingredients have been widely used in high-performance coating formulations for their durability, water-repellency, and other desirable properties. However, the regulatory landscape in Europe is changing.
The European Union is actively phasing out entire classes of PFAS, including lesser-known compounds such as trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), which is critical in some industrial and protective coatings.
At the same time, new rules targeting intentionally added microplastics under REACH, as well as stricter restrictions on certain biocides, are compelling formulators to rethink their raw material choices and move toward more sustainable alternatives.
What Buyers of the Coatings Industry Need to Consider
For procurement professionals, this shift means that purchasing decisions now involve more than just negotiating costs and lead times. Buyers should consider:
- Identifying suppliers who comply with REACH and the Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR) and can provide transparent, up-to-date documentation.
- Evaluating materials not only for current compliance but also for their likelihood of facing future restrictions.
- Seeking alternatives to PFAS- and microplastic-based ingredients that still meet technical and performance standards.
- Balancing the need for compliance against the commercial and technical risks of reformulating products prematurely.
Why CheMondis
At CheMondis, we understand the complexity of the coatings industry’s supply chain, and we help you navigate it.
Our Procurement Discovery Service connects buyers with verified, compliant suppliers, offering a diverse and global network so you can mitigate risk and maintain production schedules. We also help you discover tested and sustainable alternatives when regulatory changes or shortages disrupt your current materials.
With CheMondis, you gain transparency, flexibility, and access to a reliable supplier base that meets both your performance and compliance needs.
Moving Toward Compliance-Driven Sourcing
Compliance is no longer simply a regulatory checkbox; it is now a critical element of sourcing strategy. The evolving rules around PFAS, microplastics, and biocides require buyers to adopt greater visibility, documentation rigor, and flexibility within their supply chains.
By staying informed about regulatory developments, maintaining clear communication with suppliers, and proactively identifying alternatives, procurement teams can mitigate risks and keep production on track in an increasingly complex regulatory environment.
Jul 29, 2025
New Deadlines Put Pressure on Manufacturers
The EU cosmetics ingredient ban has introduced two significant deadlines that require cosmetics and personal care manufacturers to reformulate affected products quickly or risk their removal from the market. The updated regulations ban and restrict certain ingredients, placing additional pressure on supply chains, R&D teams, and production planning.
Two Key Compliance Dates for the EU Cosmetics Ban
By September 1, 2025, all products containing newly classified CMR (carcinogenic, mutagenic, or reprotoxic) substances must be removed from the EU market, as mandated by Omnibus Act VII (adopted in 2024). Additionally, a second deadline follows on May 1, 2026, when products that exceed newly proposed limits or include additional banned ingredients under the draft Omnibus Act VIII (published in 2025) must also be withdrawn. Therefore, together, these deadlines give companies just 12 to 18 months to review formulations, source compliant alternatives, and bring updated products to market in response to the EU cosmetics ingredient ban.
Why Reformulation Is Challenging
However, updating formulations is not as simple as swapping one ingredient for another. Manufacturers face several challenges:
- Technical complexity: Finding alternatives that deliver the same performance is difficult.
- Safety and testing: Reformulated products must go through full safety and stability testing, followed by regulatory notification and updated labeling.
- Supply constraints: As all manufacturers seek the same approved alternatives, demand spikes, causing longer lead times for compliant ingredients.
- Production planning: Reformulation often requires production trials, line adjustments, and coordination with packaging and logistics partners.
How CheMondis Supports Your Next Moves
To stay ahead of the upcoming regulatory deadlines, manufacturers should act now by auditing their product portfolios, identifying affected formulations, and engaging with suppliers early to secure compliant alternatives. Therefore, prioritizing high‑volume or strategic SKUs for reformulation, planning for updated safety testing and labeling, and monitoring the final regulatory texts are all key steps.
CheMondis supports this process by providing a transparent, efficient matrix where buyers can quickly find and compare compliant raw materials from verified suppliers, access up-to-date documentation, and secure the ingredients they need without delays. By preparing early and leveraging CheMondis’ trusted network, companies can mitigate risks. Therefore, avoid supply chain bottlenecks and maintain business continuity as regulations take effect.
Takeaway: Start Today to Stay Compliant
The EU’s updated ingredient bans create clear compliance deadlines that manufacturers cannot afford to ignore. Starting the reformulation process now is essential to minimize risks, control costs, and maintain customer confidence. Start with CheMondis to stay ahead of the curve.
CheMondis will continue to monitor these regulatory changes and share insights to help buyers and suppliers navigate this transition.
Jun 17, 2025
Navigating Global Shifts in Chemical Sourcing
The global trade landscape is evolving rapidly, especially between Europe and China. Recent U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods have disrupted global supply chains, pushing Chinese exports toward Europe and altering trade flows in the chemical industry. Then, a freshly negotiated 90‑day truce paused reciprocal duties earlier this month. For European R&D departments, procurement professionals, and distributors, this transition presents both challenges and critical opportunities.
How Global Trade Shifts Impact Chemical Sourcing
During the tariff peak, Chinese exporters shifted focus to Europe, a pattern the EU continues to balance today. By 2019, Europe had become a larger importer of Chinese goods than the U.S., creating a competitive edge for European Buyers seeking cost-effective raw materials and chemical intermediates. But while Buyers may benefit from better prices, European chemical producers must navigate increased pressure to remain competitive.
European policy has adopted a “de-risking” strategy rather than complete decoupling. The goal: reduce dependence on any single source, especially for critical materials. Europe currently imports over 90% of certain pharmaceutical and specialty chemical inputs from China. This heavy reliance underlines the importance of smart, diversified sourcing.
Why Europe Still Leads in Chemical R&D and Manufacturing
Despite China’s dominance in foundational raw material production, Europe continues to lead in high-quality, compliant, and innovative manufacturing. The European chemical industry is globally respected for its strict safety regulations, research excellence, and sustainability initiatives.
European manufacturers add value by transforming base materials into advanced specialty chemicals and life sciences formulations. This division of labor strengthens the supply chain, combining cost-efficiency from China with European precision and compliance under frameworks like REACH.
Sourcing Verified Raw Materials: Risk or Opportunity?
European Buyers cannot afford to compromise on quality. Materials sourced from abroad must meet the EU’s strict standards. Strategic sourcing from verified partners allows companies to:
- Cut costs on base chemicals without lowering product quality
- Increase supply chain resilience through diversification
- Meet regulatory requirements (e.g., REACH compliance)
- Focus internal resources on high-value innovation
This balanced sourcing model empowers R&D and procurement teams to support innovation while remaining budget-conscious and competitive.
Ensuring Quality and Transparency with CheMondis
Navigating global sourcing requires trust and verification. How can Buyers be sure that a supplier halfway around the world meets their standards? CheMondis addresses this concern by providing a platform where every Supplier goes through a verification process. We connect European Buyers directly with thoroughly Verified Chinese Suppliers. All documentation (from material safety data sheets to certifications) is readily available, and communication is streamlined. This level of supply chain transparency and accountability helps avoid the pitfalls that can come with international trade.
Moreover, CheMondis enables efficient collaboration by simplifying logistics and communication. The platform lets buyers easily compare offers from different Suppliers, making informed decisions based on cost, quality, and lead times. By aggregating trusted Suppliers in one place, CheMondis saves Buyers the time and risk of searching on their own. Hence, diversifying your sourcing strategy becomes much easier – many of our users discover new, reliable Suppliers (locally or globally) that they wouldn’t have connected to otherwise. Whether you are looking to source a specialty polymer from a European producer or a bulk ingredient from an Asian manufacturer, our Marketplace ensures that quality, compliance, and reliability are non-negotiable in every deal.
Navigating the Future: Partner with Confidence
In a world of shifting tariffs and evolving trade alliances, European Buyers don’t have to choose between supporting local industry and benefiting from global markets; a smart strategy allows for both. By staying informed and using trusted platforms, businesses can adapt to changes like the Europe–China trade realignment and even turn them into advantages.
CheMondis is here to support you in this journey. Reach out to CheMondis today. Our team is ready to help you navigate the complexities of international chemical sourcing with confidence. Contact us to learn how we can connect you with the right Suppliers and reinforce your supply chain for the future. Moreover, together, let’s embrace the opportunities of a changing trade environment while keeping your business secure and competitive.
Apr 10, 2025
China plays a pivotal role in the global chemical industry. With a market share exceeding 40% of worldwide chemical production, the country is not only a vital Supplier of raw materials but also a powerful engine of innovation. But what makes China such an essential partner for European chemical companies and why is now the right time to strengthen this collaboration?
Unmatched Production Capacity and Global Market Leadership
China is the world’s leading producer of chemical raw materials and specialty chemicals. The broader Asia-Pacific region accounts for over 70% of global chemical output, with China at its core. European industry players benefit particularly from this.
- Fine chemicals and specialty products, indispensable for sectors like pharmaceuticals, coatings, and performance chemicals
- Basic chemicals, where China offers both vast production volume and globally competitive pricing
- Polymers and plastics, which form a significant supply base for European manufacturers
In recent years, China has strategically expanded its production capabilities, exporting chemicals worth several hundred billion US dollars annually. This has cemented its status as a dominant force in global chemical supply chains.
Innovation and Technological Leadership
China is no longer the manufacturing hub of the world. It has evolved to an innovative leader, investing heaily in the future of the chemical industry.
They are currently working on Green chemistry and recycling technologies to promote sustainable material use. Modern production facilitiies that increasingly meeting and exceeding the benchmarks of European companies.
International R&D collaborations, particularly in the development of high performance materials. Digitally integrated supply chains, that can enhance efficiency traceability, and responsiveness. With strong momentum in areas such as bio-based materials, low emission process, and automation, China is helping to shape the next generation of chemical production technologies
Competitive Costs and Reliable Supply
Amid rising energy prices and volatile global raw material markets, China remains a reliable and cost-effective partner for European Buyers.
- Economies of scale and advanced logistics ensure competitive pricing.
- Well-established infrastructure supports consistent raw material flow.
- Flexible production capacity, allowing companies to adapt to changing demand and specifications
For many European Manufacturers, Chinese Suppliers are not an option but are critical for maintaining global competitiveness.
Strategic Supply Chain Diversification
Europe’s chemical sector faces increasing pressure to diversify sourcing and reduce dependency on limited markets.
- Reduced reliance on a narrow supplier base.
- Resilient, diversified supply chains that can better withstand geopolitical shocks.
- Agility in responding to export controls, sanctions, or trade restrictions.
Strategic partnerships with Chinese producers are an important risk management tool in today’s complex global landscape.
Timing Matters: Why?
In a time of geopolitical tension and supply chain distruption, proactive supply planning becomes more important than ever. Companies that act now position themselves for long-term competitive advantages. China will continue to be a critical player in Europe’s chemical sector. Early engagement with trusted Chinese partners enables stable sourcing and gives companies access to cutting-edge innovations and fast-evolving markets.
CheMondis: Bridging China and Europe in the Chemical Industry
Recognizing China’s strategic role in the global chemical market is only the first step. The real challenge for many European companies lies in executing partnerships with Chinese producers in a way that is efficient, compliant, and scalable. This is where CheMondis delivers tangible value.
CheMondis is a digital B2B platform purpose-built for the chemical industry. We connect European Buyers directly with thoroughly vetted Chinese Suppliers. Each partner in our network is subject to strict quality control and compliance standards, ensuring that every transaction can meet the expectations of regulated European markets.
We also address a critical issue in international business: communication. The platform is designed to eliminate language and cultural barriers by offering a streamlined digital environment where communication is clear, direct, and efficient. This enhances transparency, speeds up negotiation cycles, and helps build trust on both sides of the transaction.
By combining Verified Supplier access, and a seamless digital interface, CheMondis enables European chemical companies to tap into China’s industrial capabilities with confidence. Our platform supports safe, efficient, and scalable sourcing that aligns with both operational goals and compliance requirements.
Nov 18, 2024
The chemical industry stands at the crossroads of innovation and tradition, driven by the need to adopt digital transformation. Accelerated by the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and shifting global dynamics, companies in the sector are embracing digitalization to improve efficiency, enhance customer engagement, and stay competitive in an evolving market. The transition is not just about technology, it’s about rethinking business strategies to navigate the demands of the modern world.
The Power of Industry 4.0 in Chemical Manufacturing
Industry 4.0 technologies—such as IoT, AI, and big data—are revolutionizing chemical manufacturing processes. These technologies enable real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and intelligent automation, delivering unprecedented levels of efficiency and productivity. For instance, smart sensors can track production parameters continuously, helping manufacturers anticipate issues and minimize downtime.
Moreover, these tools facilitate highly customized production, enabling chemical companies to develop tailored solutions for specific customer needs. IoT and machine-to-machine communication allow seamless adjustments during production, resulting in products equipped with embedded smart features. These advancements not only enhance product functionality but also enable manufacturers to collect valuable performance feedback from end-users.
A key component of this transformation is the shift toward digital platforms that connect Buyers and Suppliers. CheMondis is reshaping the B2B chemical marketplace by providing solutions tailored to modern needs. Traditional methods of networking became impractical during the pandemic, and CheMondis stepped in to bridge the gap.
CheMondis combines cutting-edge technology with human-centric services to maintain personal connections in sales. Through Match-Making, businesses can efficiently find potential partners, validate their needs, and establish meaningful connections. Our Analytics Feature empowers companies to understand market trends and consumer behavior, enabling smarter decisions. With online visibility tools, businesses can showcase their offerings to a global audience, expanding their market reach. Buyers can leverage the Open Request feature to post specific needs, allowing Suppliers to respond directly. To ensure seamless experience, CheMondis also offers personal account management, providing dedicated support to help companies maximize productivity and revenue.
Sustainability as a Digital Driver
Sustainability is a growing priority in digital transformation, with many chemical companies adopting digital tools to achieve environmental goals. Technologies such as AI and IoT are being used to optimize resource consumption, reduce waste, and create more eco-friendly processes. By integrating sustainability into digital strategies, businesses not only comply with regulatory demands but also position themselves as leaders in green innovation.
CheMondis supports these efforts by providing tools that enhance supply chain transparency, improve operational efficiency, and foster collaborations that promote sustainable practices. For example, analytics-driven insights can help businesses identify areas for reducing carbon emissions or improving waste management.
Adapting to Digital Challenges
Despite its benefits, digitalization in the chemical industry remains a challenge for many chemical companies. Research shows that only a small percentage of businesses have successfully scaled their digital initiatives. The keys to successful digitalization include adopting AI, fostering customer-centric digital services, and building adaptive structures that can respond quickly to market changes. Continuous learning and upskilling are also essential to ensure employees can harness the full potential of new technologies.
CheMondis provides businesses with the tools and support needed to overcome these challenges. By enabling seamless global connections and offering insights into market trends, we help companies adapt to the changing landscape with confidence.
The Future of the Chemical Industry
Digitalisation of the chemical industry is not a one-time upgrade; it is an ongoing process that requires vision and adaptability. As technologies like AI, IoT, and big data continue to evolve, the chemical industry must remain proactive in adopting innovations. CheMondis is paving the way for businesses to thrive in this new era by combining technology with personalized services.
The companies that embrace digital tools today will be the ones leading the chemical industry tomorrow. Whether it’s optimizing operations, enhancing customer satisfaction, or driving sustainability, digital transformation is the key to unlocking the full potential of the chemical sector.
