U.K. chemicals—Strategic planning or industrial strategy

A distinction is drawn between chemical industry strategic planning and planning related to particular products, markets and investments.

For the past decade, the industry has collaborated closely with government and unions on industry and sector planning studies, mainly through the Chemicals EDC and its working parties. Recent government legislation and policy has sought to formalise the joint planning process through planning agreements and an industrial strategy, these being mainly concerned with specific investments and market developments. Problems inherent in this approach are discussed.

Some major strategic issues involving both government and industry are identified.