Strategic Plan to Enhance Competitiveness of Tarragona Chemical Industry Amid Energy Cost Pressures

The Associacio d Empreses Quimiques de Tarragona (AEQT) has presented a specialised plan to the government aimed at boosting the competitiveness of the Tarragona chemical industry in response to escalating energy costs and international market pressures.

The proposal was discussed during a meeting between the AEQT Executive Committee and the President of the Generalitat, Salvador Illa, with participation from the Minister for Business and Labour, Miquel Samper, along with other institutional representatives.

Javier Sancho, President of AEQT, emphasised the importance of this plan to address the unique characteristics of the Tarragona chemical complex, which is a key driver of industrial activity in Catalonia. The sector annually invests approximately 500 million euros, with 30 percent allocated to safety and environmental protection measures.

Industry stakeholders believe that the current European context — characterised by high energy prices, CO2 emission costs, global competition, and geopolitical uncertainty — necessitates dedicated measures to ensure the sectors sustainability and growth.

Among the key proposals are reducing energy costs, providing compensation for CO2 emissions, promoting projects related to renewable products and circular economy initiatives including hydrogen, and strengthening energy and logistics infrastructure. The plan also highlights the importance of professional training to attract and retain talent in the sector.

Furthermore, the AEQT has called for the establishment of a stable working space with the government to continuously address sector challenges and progress towards the strategic plan implementation.

This meeting has reinforced institutional collaboration during a crucial period for the future of the chemical industry, seen as strategic for Tarragona s economy and for Catalonia as a whole.