High energy costs and taxes threaten Dutch chemical sector, Shell CEO says

Frans Everts, CEO of Shell Netherlands, warned Sunday that high energy costs and carbon taxes are putting the Dutch industry at a competitive disadvantage, particularly within the chemical sector, which he says is already facing significant challenges. In an interview on the television program WNL op Zondag, Everts highlighted the need for a level playing field in order to maintain the viability of Dutch industry against foreign competitors.

Everts noted that the Dutch chemical industry, in particular, is struggling to keep pace with its counterparts in neighboring countries such as Germany, France, and Belgium. He argued that the Dutch government should allow local industries to compete on equal terms with these nations, given the strong infrastructure and skilled workforce available in the Netherlands.

“We’re not asking for anything special,” Everts said. “We simply want to be able to compete like Germany, France, and Belgium. If we do that, the Netherlands will have a very strong position.”

Without significant improvements, Everts warned, the chemical industry could reduce maintenance activities, potentially leading to the closure of facilities. Shell is continuously evaluating the viability of its own installations in the Netherlands and across Europe, and discussions with employees are ongoing regarding these potential changes.

While Shell has already made decisions regarding maintenance for this year, Everts confirmed that the company is conducting a thorough review of its European chemical operations. “We have already lost hundreds of millions in recent years with Shell Netherlands alone,” he stated.