The Indian Chemical Council (ICC) will host the 19th edition of its Annual India Chemical Industry Outlook Conference & Exhibition on 11–12 March 2026 at the Grand Hyatt Mumbai. Recognised as ICC’s flagship event, the conference has emerged as one of the most influential strategic platforms for India’s chemical industry.
Over the years, the event has evolved into a premier forum that brings together industry leaders, policymakers, and global experts to discuss the sector’s future. In particular, it facilitates leadership dialogue, policy engagement, international collaboration, and the sharing of best practices in safety, sustainability, and operational resilience.
Theme Focuses on Competitiveness and Resilience
The theme for the 2026 edition — “Shaping a Competitive and Resilient Chemical Industry for India”—reflects the sector’s growing need to adapt to geopolitical shifts, technological transformation, and sustainability challenges. Like previous editions, McKinsey & Company will serve as the knowledge partner for the conference. In addition, the event is supported by the Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, along with the International Council of Chemical Associations (ICCA).
Eminent Global Leaders to Address Inaugural Session
The inaugural session on day one will feature prominent global leaders who will share insights on competitiveness, strategic transformation, and investment priorities in the chemical industry.
Key speakers include:
*Sven Smit, Senior Partner at McKinsey & Company
*Claus Rettig, Interim CFO and President – Asia Pacific at Evonik Industries AG
*Marco Mensink, Director General of the European Chemical Industry Council
Their addresses will highlight leadership strategies, capital allocation, and the evolving global landscape of the chemical sector.
Fireside Chat with Global Technology Leaders
Another highlight of the conference will be a fireside chat featuring A N Sreeram, Senior Vice President – Research & Development and CTO at Dow. He will engage in an in-depth discussion with M M Sharma, the Padma Vibhushan awardee widely regarded as one of India’s most influential chemical engineering leaders. The session will explore innovation, leadership journeys, and the future direction of the global chemical industry.
A Strategic Platform for Global Industry Dialogue
The conference typically attracts 700–750 senior-level delegates, including:
*CEOs, CXOs, and board members from leading chemical and petrochemical companies
*Global industry associations and multinational corporations
*Officials and regulators from the Government of India
*Technology, safety, logistics, and risk management solution providers
*Investors, start-ups, and research institutions
The event offers a unique environment for high-level networking, closed-door discussions, and one-to-one meetings. Participants can explore investment opportunities, technology collaborations, and global best practices in safety and operational excellence.
Key Sessions on Global Trends and Industry Transformation
In addition to keynote addresses, the conference will host multiple sessions focusing on emerging global trends shaping the chemical sector. Key topics include:
*Geopolitical shifts shaping the global chemicals industry
*How multinational companies are responding to geopolitical challenges
*The growing role of Generative AI (GenAI) in chemical manufacturing
*Managing risk and opportunity in the chemical value chain
*Implications for the US–India partnership
*Impact of China’s industrial policies and opportunities for India
*Strengthening resilience in European markets
*Capital allocation strategies for chemical leaders
*Co-innovation and collaboration in the industry
*The current state of global mergers and acquisitions in chemicals
*Capturing value in fast-growing end markets
*Elevator pitches by start-up founders in the chemical sector
These discussions aim to provide strategic insights for companies navigating global market shifts and technological disruption.
Networking, B2B Engagement and Industry Collaboration
Beyond formal sessions, the conference will also feature interactive formats designed to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange. These include:
*Fireside chats with leading industry figures
*One-to-one coffee chats with speakers
*B2B and B2G meetings with key partners and exhibitors
Such engagement opportunities enable participants to build meaningful partnerships and discuss future investment opportunities.
ICCA Leadership Meeting to Boost Global Participation
In parallel with the conference, ICC will also host the Energy & Climate Change Leadership Group Meeting of the International Council of Chemical Associations. Senior representatives from ICCA member associations worldwide will attend the meeting. As many of these global leaders are expected to participate in the conference as well, the event will offer a valuable platform for international collaboration and strategic dialogue on climate and sustainability initiatives in the chemical sector.
Exhibition to Showcase Industry Innovations
Alongside the conference, ICC will organise a dedicated industry exhibition highlighting the latest innovations and solutions in the chemical sector. The exhibition will feature:
*Advanced technologies for chemical manufacturing and process optimisation
*Safety and risk management solutions for industrial operations
*Sustainability-focused products and services across chemical industry segments
By bringing together technology providers, manufacturers, and solution developers, the exhibition will further support knowledge sharing and collaboration within the industry.
Driving the Future of India’s Chemical Industry
With participation from global leaders, policymakers, technology experts, and investors, the 19th Annual India Chemical Industry Outlook Conference & Exhibition aims to shape the next phase of growth for India’s chemical sector. As per the press release, the event will play a key role in strengthening industry competitiveness, fostering innovation, and building a resilient and globally integrated chemical ecosystem for India.
