From the Sector

The European Chemicals Agency brings forward a proposal for an EU-wide restriction on certain hexavalent chromium, Cr(VI), substances. The aim is to reduce the harmful effects of these carcinogenic chemicals for both workers and the public.

At the request of the European Commission, ECHA has assessed the risks posed by certain Cr(VI) substances to workers and the public as well as the socio-economic impacts of potential restrictions.

The Agency concluded that an EU-wide restriction is justified as Cr(VI) substances are among the most potent workplace carcinogens and pose a serious risk to workers’ health. People living near industrial sites that release these substances into the environment are also at risk of lung and intestinal cancers.

ECHA proposes to introduce a ban on Cr(VI) substances, except in the following use categories when they meet defined limits for worker exposure and environmental emissions:

1. Formulation of mixtures
2. Electroplating on plastic substrate
3. Electroplating on metal substrate
4. Use of primers and other slurries
5. Other surface treatment
6. Functional additives/process aids

Such a restriction could replace the current authorisation requirements under REACH, ensuring that the risks associated with Cr(VI) substances are effectively controlled once they are no longer subject to REACH authorisation. Additionally, barium chromate is included in the scope of the restriction to avoid regrettable substitution.

The restriction could prevent up to 17 tonnes of Cr(VI) from being released into the environment and avoid up to 195 cancer cases each year. Over 20 years, the total monetised benefits are estimated to be €331 million or €1.07 billion, depending on the restriction option chosen. The total cost to European society is estimated at either €314 million or €3.23 billion. These costs include investments in measures to reduce environmental releases and worker exposure, cost of closures and relocations, and replacing Cr(VI) substances with safer alternatives.

All stakeholders have the opportunity to provide information backed by robust evidence during a six-month consultation, which is expected to start on 18 June 2025. ECHA is planning to organise an online information session to explain the restriction process and help stakeholders take part in the consultation.

Next steps
ECHA’s scientific Committees for Risk Assessment and Socio-Economic Analysis will evaluate the restriction proposal. In their evaluation, they will consider the scientific evidence received during the consultations.
The European Commission, together with the 27 EU Member States, will take the decision on the restriction and its conditions – based on ECHA’s proposal and the committees’ opinion.

ECHA is the EU’s chemicals agency responsible for implementing EU chemical regulations.

After years of giving precedence to economic growth over environmental considerations, China has set ambitious goals to tackle ecological challenges and to emerge as a global leader in green innovation.

For European SMEs, China's green transformation can unlock opportunities in sectors such as renewable energy, environmental technologies, sustainability consulting, and ESG services. However, challenges remain, and many European firms face hurdles in matters of compliance with the country’s strict and evolving regulatory landscape.

On 24 April, the EU SME Centre and European Union Chamber of Commerce in China are inviting European SMEs to a workshop on China’s green development sector, its emerging market opportunities and challenges to prepare for.

Thursday 24 April
In Shenzhen & Online
10:00 – 11:30 Brussels Time / 16:00 – 17:30 Beijing Time

Agenda: CST – China Standard Time
16:00 – 16:05 Opening remarks
- Klaus Zenkel, Vice President and Chair of the South China Board, European Chamber
- Liam Jia, Team Leader, EU SME Centre

16:05 – 16:25 Green Development in China: Opportunities and Challenges for European SMEs in China
Nathalie Ieong, Senior Project Manager and Expertise Manager, Terao Asia

16:25 – 16:45 Update on the European Commission’s Simplified Rules on Sustainability and Their Potential Impact on EU SMEs in China
Prabhu Ramkumar, Vice President and Head of Sustainaibility of TÜV SÜD North Asia

16:45 – 17:15 Panel Discussion: Industry Case Studies & Best Practices
Moderator: Filippo Pallaroni, Training Centre Coordinator, EU SME Centre

Panellists:
Nathalie Ieong, Senior Project Manager and Expertise Manager, Terao Asia
Prabhu Ramkumar, Vice President and Head of Sustainaibility, TÜV SÜD North Asia
Christian Gassner, Vice Chair of the European Chamber Manufacturing Forum
Tobias Könings, Vice Chair of the European Chamber SME Forum
Jiahui Lu, Associate Vice President of Towngas Smart Energy

17:15 – 17:25 Q&A session

17:25 – 17:30 Closing remarks

Online registration

On Tuesday 15 April, EURATEX (the European Apparel and Textile Confederation) and FTTH (Fédération Tunisienne du Textile et de l’Habillement) formalised a new chapter in Euro-Mediterranean collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Monastir, Tunisia. The agreement reinforces the commitment of both parties to closer industrial cooperation, with a strong focus on sustainability, investment, and trade integration under the revised Pan-Euro-Mediterranean Convention.

The signature ceremony took place at the Monastir Technopole in the presence of senior representatives, including the Governor of Monastir, the Tunisian Minister of Industry, the EU Ambassador to Tunisia, and business leaders from both regions. It marked a significant step towards establishing a structured dialogue and actionable cooperation between two key textile industries, in the context of global supply chain shifts and increasing demand for sustainable production.

“Europe and Tunisia share a long-standing partnership. While our systems may differ, our industries are deeply complementary. In a time of regulatory transformation and increasing environmental ambitions, working together is essential,” said EURATEX President Mario Jorge Machado. “This MoU offers a practical framework to improve competitiveness, drive innovation, and reinforce the resilience of our shared textile ecosystem.”

The agreement also reflects a broader vision to revitalise and reinforce industrial partnerships across the Mediterranean. In an evolving geopolitical and economic context, Tunisia stands out as a trusted and strategically located partner. Deepening regional value chains, reducing dependency on distant sourcing, and fostering nearshoring solutions are not only economic imperatives, but also critical components of building a more sustainable and resilient European textile industry. The MoU with FTTH embodies this ambition by promoting a Mediterranean model of cooperation rooted in proximity, trust, and shared economic interests.

The Tunisian textile and apparel sector is a cornerstone of the national economy, accounting for over 160,000 jobs and more than 1,600 active companies. In 2024, Tunisia exported €2.5 billion in textiles and clothing to the EU, confirming its strategic position as a nearshoring partner. The MoU supports Tunisia’s ambition to become a modern, circular and competitive textile hub, while encouraging investment and industrial synergies with European partners.

As the European textile sector undergoes profound transformation, reinforced cooperation with neighbouring countries like Tunisia is essential to shape a more sustainable and strategic regional supply chain.

EDANA, the global association and voice representing the nonwovens and related industries, and INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, jointly express their concerns regarding escalating trade tensions.

Both associations recognize the potential for countermeasures and reciprocal tariffs to negatively impact the nonwovens industry globally. The nonwovens industry is a global sector, with many companies having significant operations worldwide, including in Europe and the United States. It is crucial to avoid a harmful cycle of retaliatory tariffs that could have a net negative effect on economies worldwide.

Both EDANA and INDA urge policymakers to prioritize negotiations and seek mutually beneficial resolutions. “While we understand the need to address unfair trade practices, we urge regions to prioritize negotiations and seek mutually beneficial resolutions,” stated Murat Dogru, General Manager at EDANA. “Escalating tariffs create uncertainty and can disrupt supply chains, ultimately harming industries and consumers.”  

Tony Fragnito, INDA’s President & CEO added, “The nonwovens industry supports fair trade and a level playing field. We encourage policymakers to consider the broader impact of trade measures and to pursue policies that foster collaboration and free trade.”  

EDANA and INDA highlight the significant role of the nonwovens industry in providing essential materials for various sectors, including hygiene, healthcare, and manufacturing in many regions, including Europe and the United States. The associations urge the US and EU to recognize the interconnectedness of the industry and the importance of maintaining open trade between the regions. At a time when manufacturers are facing cost pressures from many angles, it is imperative that American and European manufacturers remain competitive globally and have long-term clarity on import costs.  

EDANA and INDA remain dedicated to promoting trade policies that support a strong and adaptable nonwovens industry worldwide. Choosing collaboration over conflict, and commitment to open markets and productive engagement, will pave the way for a future where trade acts as a catalyst for shared prosperity and innovation, to the advantage of industries and consumers alike.