The effects of the REACH Regulation, which came into effect in June, on companies importing chemicals into the EU region are considerable. China will be setting up its own chemicals representative office in Helsinki in January 2008.

The China Chamber of Commerce of Metals, Minerals and Chemicals Importers (CCCMC) represents more than 4,000 companies in the metals and chemicals sector.

The CCCMC received authorisation to set up a representative office from the Chinese trade ministry in July. The situation is extremely unusual in that major powers have not previously established offices to be in contact with the headquarters of other specialist authorities.

"It is important for us to follow the change in requirements regarding chemicals and the progress of registration of chemicals, and in this way to ensure that Chinese companies stay on the European market," says Madame Li, the Deputy Director-General of the CCCMC.

"We need a centralized EU representative that can pursue the interests of the entire industry in Europe. In Helsinki we will be as close as possible to the decision-making. Helsinki is also an excellent choice because of its infrastructure and attractiveness."

Others in the future

In the future representations from other countries are expected to come ashore at Helsinki. Riku Rinta-Jouppi, the project manager of the Helsinki Reach Centre, says the issue has already been settled with the commercial mission of the Russian Federation in Helsinki.

"The matter has also already been discussed with the relevant parties in the United States, Japan, Canada, South Korea and India," Rinta-Jouppi says.

All cooperating

REACH encourages different players, industrial companies and national authorities to cooperate in order to distribute information about the testing and usage of information and to minimize costs.

The Helsinki REACH Centre promotes networking. The aim is to invite players outside the EU to Helsinki and support the companies they represent in the fulfilment of REACH obligations.

"We have already succeeded in bringing existing and new players together during the first year," says a delighted Rinta-Jouppi. "China's prompt action is a sign of its commitment to promote the safety of chemicals."

>> Chemicals Agency growing

>> www.helsinkireachcentre.eu
>> www.echa.eu

The Chemicals Agency is helping to turn Helsinki into an important meeting place in Europe for players in the chemicals industry. (Photo: ECHA)