Brenntag supports Germany's infrastructure fund, but warns of China competition
Brenntag, a German chemicals distributor, supports Germany's proposed infrastructure fund but warns of rising competition from China. The German chemical sector is facing challenges such as subdued demand, high energy costs, and supply chain issues. CEO Jens Birgersson emphasized the need for stimuli to boost growth and highlighted the lack of European policies to address chemical over-capacity from China. He noted that China's competitiveness is negatively impacting German and European chemical producers, as China has become a major exporter to Europe following U.S. tariff changes.
