essenscia is the Belgian federation of the chemical industry and life sciences sector. The organisation defends the specific interests of more than 720 companies active in chemistry, plastics, pharma and biotech.

With continuous growth in number of jobs over the past 10 years, a considerable proportion of total Belgian exports and of the industry’s added value, the chemical and life sciences sector is one of the country’s most important industrial branches. As a champion of exports and innovation, the sector makes a significant contribution to Belgium’s growth and prosperity. In terms of turnover per capita, Belgium is one of the world leaders in chemicals and plastics and is the European leader in the development of new medicines.

In the difficult context of the coronavirus crisis, the chemical and life sciences sector confirmed its position as the industrial engine of the Belgian economy.