Global leaders to debate chemicals regulation, competitiveness and sustainability in Helsinki
At a time when Europe’s chemicals and metals industries face increasing competition and regulatory pressure, the 17th Helsinki Chemicals Forum 2026 will bring together experts from different stakeholders to address what comes next.
The hybrid international conference, taking place on 15–16 April at the Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre, will focus on how chemicals regulation, investment and innovation can be aligned to secure both competitiveness and sustainability in a dramatically changing global landscape.
Focus on industry transformation and policy alignment
The programme tackles the most critical policy and industry questions shaping the chemicals and metals industries today, with a strong focus on the future of EU chemicals legislation and the European Chemicals Industry Action Plan.
Keynote speakers include Kristin Schreiber, Director for Chemicals, Bioeconomy and Retail at the European Commission (DG GROW), Paul Speight, Head of Unit for Safe and Sustainable Chemicals at DG Environment, Meredith Williams, former Director of the California Department of Toxic Substances Control, and Sharon McGuinness, Executive Director of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA).
A central theme throughout the conference is how to balance regulatory ambition with industrial competitiveness while responding to the triple environment crises: climate change, chemicals pollution and biodiversity loss.
Panels address circularity, innovation and global cooperation
Five panel discussions will examine how these challenges translate into practice, from circular use of critical materials and battery regulation to investment-driven industry transformation and the substitution of hazardous chemicals.
Further sessions will address the role of science-policy cooperation in global chemicals governance and the practical implications of transitioning towards non-animal testing methods.
Together, these discussions aim to move beyond policy objectives towards implementation, identifying what is required to enable international large-scale change along all value chains of the manufacturing industry.
Global platform for networking with decision-makers across the globe
Helsinki Chemicals Forum provides a platform for dialogue across the full chemicals value chain. Each year, the event brings together authorities, industry leaders, NGOs, academics, journalists and specialists to exchange views on the future of chemicals management.
In addition to the conference sessions, the programme includes networking events, exhibitions and stakeholder meetings, offering opportunities for collaboration across sectors and regions.
By registering for live or online participation before the end of this month one will still benefit from the Early Bird Rebate of 25%.
Additional information:
Geert Dancet, Secretary General, geert.dancet@messukeskus.com
Minna Korpimies, Brand marketing & Communications Specialist, tel.: +358 50 387 7325, ext-minna.korpimies@messukeskus.com
