FEICA, the Association of the European Adhesive & Sealant Industry, has launched a Stakeholder Forum, which is an initiative designed to foster long-term collaboration across the adhesive and sealant value chain. The inaugural session, was held on June 11 in Brussels and discussed the implications of the ongoing REACH revision. The forum brought together representatives from sectors such as textiles and apparel, automotive, aerospace and defense, flexible and carton packaging, retail and wholesale, printing, construction equipment and infrastructure, environmental packaging, tire and rubber manufacturing, digital technology, and downstream chemical users.

Collaboration Framework

Beyond immediate policy discussions, the FEICA Stakeholder Forum is aimed at building a long-term collaboration framework across the entire adhesive and sealant value chain. Participants are invited to share insights and engage in pending policy dialogues. The Stakeholder Forum is set up as a recurring platform to address regulatory topics of shared relevance across the value chain, reinforcing its commitment to collaborative, cross-sector dialogue.

"The launch of the FEICA Stakeholder Forum marks an important step in strengthening our engagement with industry — and other stakeholders," said Kristel Ons, FEICA secretary general. "It creates a space for meaningful dialogue, where we can better understand the needs of the entire value chain and work together on shared priorities that go beyond any single regulation."

The first session of the FEICA Stakeholder Forum covered the REACH Regulation (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals), which is undergoing a major revision aimed at simplification. FEICA reports that the anticipated review raises concerns about substance availability, reformulation needs, and increased compliance burdens. The Stakeholder Forum provides a platform to align on shared challenges and coordinate efforts to ensure that future legislation remains innovation-friendly and supportive of Europe’s industrial resilience.

The adhesive and sealant industry plays a vital role in enabling innovation across strategic EU sectors such as aerospace, defense, healthcare, energy, and transportation. Hence, the forum highlighted the importance of preserving the industry’s ability to deliver high-performance, sustainable solutions that support the EU’s green and competitive future.

Elisa Consoli, ASD – Aerospace, Security & Defence Industries Association of Europe commented, "The REACH revision will have far-reaching consequences for high-tech sectors like aerospace and defense. This Forum is a valuable space to exchange insights and coordinate efforts. By working together, we can ensure that the voices across the value chain are heard and that the final legislation reflects the complexity of our markets."

FEICA recommendations on the simplification of REACH emphasize the need for a balanced approach that supports both innovation and safety in the adhesives and sealants industry, whilst fostering industry growth and competitiveness. 

Additional information about FEICA is available at www.feica.com.