Santander and the global legal practice Squire Patton Boggs invite you to our roundtable event to discuss “What next for the Chemicals Sector?”. The event will cover taking advantage of opportunities in the Indian market, how businesses can address the growing skills shortages in the sector, as well as discussing other key issues for the industry, including; regulatory requirements/ REACH, international trade and joint ventures.

We will also be joined by representatives from the Chemical Industries Association (CIA), Department for International Trade (DIT), Invest India, the Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership (LEP), Make UK and Sannam S4.

o Time 16:00-18:00
o Date Wed 3 Jul 2019
o Venue Squire Patton Boggs, 6 Wellington Place, Leeds, LS1 4AP

Why India?
Once seen as a competitor to Western companies, India is now a growing net importer of chemicals and also increasingly becoming a part of the global supply chain. India is rapidly outpacing China as the world’s fastest growing major economy and its specialty Chemicals market has witnessed an annual growth rate of 14% over the last five years alone. Further, India’s imports of chemicals has now reached in excess of 38bn USD – with a market forecast of 90bn USD by 2023. Key opportunities have therefore opened up within its fastest growing sectors, including; Automotive, Personal care and Cosmetics & fragrances, Construction and specialised water treatments.

Following India’s recent national elections – the largest democratic exercise in the world – the incumbent government has been assigned with a decisive mandate to accelerate the pace of growth and reform.  Our India experts will be on-hand to share insights; on key trends, best practices, challenges faced by businesses when entering the Indian market and the opportunities on offer in return.

The Skills Challenge
The Chemicals sector is currently facing a variety of skills and recruitment challenges. These challenges include recruiting qualified personnel, apprenticeships and training and development. However, in 2018, our Santander Universities programme supported over 2,000 industry placements.

We will share how your business can access the scheme with potential benefits for employer and student.
Invest India will provide an overview on the availability of diverse skills and talent pools India has to offer.
We will also be discussing the challenges ahead, sharing ideas and seeking answers on how companies can attract staff, and address the need to develop the necessary skills to support the UK sector’s future.

To register please contact – jon.gillgrass@santander.co.uk