Building a stronger and more affordable America really involves acknowledging the crucial part played by chemical manufacturers in our future. Think about it—everything from national defense and energy independence to modern healthcare and efficient supply chains relies heavily on chemistry. It supports everyday products that families and businesses use, brings stability to the economy, enhances global market competitiveness, and drives technological progress.
There’s a strong argument out there that America’s success is deeply tied to its chemistry sector. The American Chemical Council (ACC) is eager to collaborate with the Trump administration and Congress to push for science-based policies across the board. They’re advocating for smarter and more streamlined regulatory processes to enhance American innovation and manufacturing.
“Chemistry produces the everyday products and solutions our country urgently needs. Expanding U.S. chemical production will elevate our status as a global manufacturing leader,” Chris Yarn, president and CEO of the ACC, stated.
The ACC, alongside its members, upholds five core principles tied to the new administration:
- It emphasizes sound science and promotes transparent, fact-based policies that support responsible regulations.
- It encourages domestic innovation leading to more jobs, significant capital investments, and research and development efforts.
- It leverages chemical innovations to shield the environment and boost America’s energy independence.
- It embodies responsibility through CARE®, focusing on employee safety, community well-being, and environmental support.
- It fosters a resilient supply chain, which is crucial for maintaining economic momentum.
Chemistry by numbers
Did you know that nearly all manufactured products are touched by chemistry? It’s a staggering $633 billion industry that’s crucial for groundbreaking products that enhance our lives and make America more resilient and fitting. Consider these facts:
- It accounts for nearly 25% of the U.S. GDP.
- It creates over $32 billion in capital investments.
- About 554,000 well-paying jobs rely on chemistry.
- It supports 4.1 million jobs in other sectors.
The U.S. has firmly established itself as the world’s second-largest chemical producer, investing millions in research and development annually.
How to enhance American manufacturing control
A significant threat to U.S. competitiveness is linked to a call for action to improve the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). The ACC suggests targeted changes instead of a complete overhaul from Congress.
The industry is focusing on two specific actions to update the TSCA. First, it seeks to address delays in new chemical programs by introducing a 90-day clock on the EPA to complete reviews of new chemicals, holding them accountable for timely assessments. Currently, nine out of ten new chemicals are stuck in the EPA review process. This backlog is pushing overseas manufacturers to introduce new products that might lag within the U.S. The industry reports that it can take six years—or more—for new chemical reviews in the U.S., while other countries usually wrap it up in about three to six months.
The second adjustment proposed for the TSCA is to ensure that existing chemical reviews are based on risk assessments, utilizing the best available science and relevant information for a balanced regulatory decision-making process.
“The Trump administration has the backing of the U.S. chemical industry and the American public to rectify the TSCA,” Chris Jahn, President and CEO of the ACC, stated.
Americans understand chemistry’s crucial role in daily life
Recently, the ACC unveiled results from a nationwide survey conducted by Morning Consult exploring voters’ perspectives on the chemical industry and its economic impact, regulatory priorities, and EPA priorities. The findings reveal overwhelming bipartisan support for strengthening the TSCA to empower manufacturers in developing sophisticated, sustainable chemicals while maintaining high safety and environmental protection standards.
Key insights from the survey highlight that Americans value the chemical industry for:
- Producing life-saving drugs and medical devices (83%)
- Supporting U.S. energy production (81%)
- Driving U.S. innovation (79%)
- Enhancing consumer products (77%)
- Boosting competitiveness against foreign markets (76%)
“The White House, EPA, and Congress can transform the U.S. into a global manufacturing superpower with the support of Americans who wish to see chemical production flourish,” the statement concluded.
Innovation and Management
As demand for chemicals is projected to rise, the ACC is working closely with the Trump administration and Congress to boost domestic production to meet national needs. Yahn pointed out, “We are not your grandfather’s chemical industry.” He added, “Our Responsible Care safety and environmental performance programs truly differentiate us. We possess a positive narrative that aligns with smarter, more efficient safety and performance regulations, especially relevant in competing against foreign entities.”
