Why did European chemical production plunge in June 2024 while overall industrial production rose slightly?

European chemical production plunged 2.1% month-on-month in June due to persistently high energy costs suppressing domestic chemical firms, coupled with competitive imported chemical products squeezing the local market despite global logistics constraints; meanwhile, overall industrial production edged up 0.2% thanks to gains in non-durable consumer goods and energy output, which offset declines in capital and intermediate goods production.

How did year-on-year chemical production trends differ across major EU economies in June 2024?

Year-on-year, EU and euro area chemical production declined marginally by 0.4% and 0.3% respectively, but with divergent national performances: France and Italy saw clear contractions, while Spain and Germany posted modest growth; this contrasted with overall industrial output, which rose 0.6% in the EU and 0.1% in the euro area, driven by increases in intermediate goods, energy, and capital goods—though consumer goods output shrank.

European Chemical Production Plunges in June

Aug 18, 2026

Eurostat data reveals EU chemical production fell 2.1% in June amidst high energy costs and weak demand, with Italy and Spain recording the largest drops. Overall industrial output grew slightly, but the chemical sector faces continued pressure.

ccin

2026-08-18

European Chemical Production Plunges in June

European Chemical Production Plunges in June

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