Capital & R&I Spending
In 2023, capital spending in EU27 was 53% above the pre-crisis levels (2014-2019). Chemical companies globally have substantially increased their capital investment by almost 70% over the past decade (2013-2023), with China alone contributing to about 47% to the overall global investment. In 2023, the EU27 chemical industry reported capital spending of €32.1 bn, up from €30.3 bn in 2022, marking the second-highest figure to date. Europe accounts for 12% of the world’s chemicals investment. Capital investment plays a pivotal role in ensuring the future development and sustainability of the chemical industry. It is imperative for the European chemical sector to invest in both its existing infrastructure and new production facilities to guarantee a viable and dynamic future.
In 2023, R&I spending was 20% above the pre-crisis levels (2014-2019). A critical investment for maintaining competitiveness and addressing societal challenges lies in R&I. In 2023, R&I spending in the EU27 chemical industry reached €10.2 bn (down from €10.7 bn in 2022). However, China continues to lead the global R&I spending. China R&I spending has more than doubled in 10 years. The European chemical industry is still committed to enhancing its overall sustainability performance and recognises the importance of both disruptive technologies and the continuous improvement of existing technologies.
EU27 capital spending increased in 2023 vs 2022
Capital spending in the EU27 chemical industry
China leads the global chemicals investments
Capital spending by region (2023 vs 2013)
High capital intensity in the EU27 chemical sector
Capital intensity in the EU27 chemical industry
European CAPITAL INTENSITY BELOW CHINA
Capital spending (% of added value, 2023 vs 2013)
EU27 loses more than 50% of its original market share vs 2003
EU27 share of global chemicals investments
china dominates capital spending
Chemicals capital spending by country (2013 vs 2023)
EU27 R&I spending reaches the second highest level in 2023
R&I spending in the EU27 chemical industry
EU27 is the third-largest R&I investor in the world in 2023
R&I spending in the chemicals industry by region (2023 vs 2013)
Decreasing share of R&I spending for the EU27, USA and Japan
Chemicals R&I spending by country (2013 vs 2023)
Navigate the other chapters
Profile – Trade Development – Growth And Competitiveness – Our Contribution To EU27 Industry – Energy Consumption – Environmental Performance
