The European Chemical Regions Network (ECRN) is pleased to announce the accession of two new members: the Province of Zeeland (Netherlands) and MAVESZ, the Hungarian Chemical Industry Association. Their membership marks a significant step in reinforcing ECRN’s mission to support a competitive, innovative, and sustainable European chemical industry.

The inclusion of these two organisations further broadens ECRN’s geographical reach and strengthens its representation across key industrial regions in Europe. Both members bring substantial expertise, industrial capacity, and strategic perspectives that will contribute to ongoing discussions on EU industrial policy, sustainability, and strategic autonomy.

The Province of Zeeland represents one of the Netherlands’ most important chemical and industrial hubs. Its economy is strongly anchored in the chemical sector, supported by advanced infrastructure and cross-border cooperation frameworks. Reflecting on this new membership, Johan Aalberts, Regional Minister of the Province of Zeeland, stated:

“With this membership Zeeland strengthens its voice in the EU in order to preserve our chemical industry and help Europe to reach its strategic autonomy. We are looking forward to work together with our new likeminded partners. The Dutch Province of Zeeland has a large presence of chemical industry, which is a driving force of the regional economy. Its cross-border industrial cluster Smart Delta Resources supports the regional industry in its competitiveness and sustainability. Zeeland also hosts North Sea Port, the only cross border port in Europe and the third European Port, when it comes to added value.”

MAVESZ, representing the Hungarian chemical industry, brings a strong national perspective and a well-established network of industrial stakeholders. Its expertise in industry advocacy, regulatory engagement, and sectoral development will contribute to ECRN’s efforts to ensure that regional and national interests are effectively reflected in European policymaking.

By joining ECRN, both the Province of Zeeland and MAVESZ reinforce the network’s collective capacity to address key challenges facing the chemical industry, including the green transition, global competitiveness, and the need for a resilient and autonomous European industrial base.

ECRN looks forward to close cooperation with its new members and to the valuable contributions they will bring to the network.