March 7, 2025
The Color Pigments Manufacturers Association (CPMA) recently held an inorganic pigments committee meeting and welcomed Dr. Heike Liewald, Managing Director of Eurocolour, for an informative presentation on EU regulatory initiatives impacting the chemical sector. Eurocolour is the leading European trade association representing manufacturers of inorganic and organic pigments, fillers, dyes, frits, ceramic and glass colours and glazes, and regional industry association.
Dr. Liewald discussed regulatory developments facing Europe’s inorganic pigments industry and potential impacts for downstream customers across multiple sectors, including paints and coatings, cosmetics, personal care products, printing inks, packaging, and plastics. There is growing concern among EU-based manufacturing companies about regulatory pressures that could weaken the manufacturing economy.
Classification of Titanium Dioxide
One example discussed by Dr. Liewald was the European Commission’s proposed classification of Titanium Dioxide (TiO₂) and the already implemented ban of titanium dioxide in certain consumer products sold in Europe. This has already been implemented in food applications. This move could have far-reaching economic consequences, particularly for the housing, cosmetics, and coatings industries, as well as for European consumers who rely on products that incorporate this critical raw material.
The initial classification of Titanium Dioxide as a carcinogen was challenged in court by coatings industry stakeholders, based upon failure to incorporate sound science. France and the EU Commission have challenged the EU Court’s decision that ECHA’s regulation was scientifically flawed. Further Court action is anticipated in May 2025.
EU Green Deal
Another regulatory challenge facing European manufacturers, and the global brands they supply, is the EU Green Deal. Regulatory pressure to transition from low-cost energy sources (coal, natural gas, nuclear) to high-cost, less efficient alternatives (wind and solar) has driven manufacturing costs up for European chemical manufacturers. Eurocolour and other European industry associations are working with the newly elected European Parliament and European Commission, asking them to reconsider the original Green Deal regulatory framework to ensure a more balanced approach.
The ongoing debate over EU regulatory policies will continue to shape the future of the global pigments sector and its downstream customers. CPMA collaborates with global partners like Eurocolour to advocate for science-based regulations and keep its members informed of policy impacting the global supply chain.
Return to News