Following the successful CESIO World Surfactants Congress in Rome in 2023, the global surfactant value chains are getting reshaped by a multitude of influencing factors. Key drivers have emerged that did not play a significant role in 2023, according to CESIO. They lead to fundamental questions that must be addressed:

• What impact will the current geopolitical developments have on investment, feedstock, raw material sourcing and innovation in circularity and sustainability?
• Which market trends will be influenced by current and upcoming legislation and substance regulations, e.g. Digital Product Passport, Green Claims Directive, future handling of polymers under REACH, 1,4-Dioxane, etc.?
• What risks could arise if the revised Detergents Regulation and the European Deforestation Regulation are not properly implemented?
• How can artificial intelligence be effectively leveraged by surfactant manufacturers and formulators?

In addition to that, many specific topics have raised the concerns of the surfactant value chains which launched technical, commercial and advocacy activities on issues like animal testing, low carbon footprint, circularity or the EU ESPR. These are just examples of the many challenges for the industry, which will influence the activities in the coming years. These and many other pressing topics will be explored at the 13^th CESIO World Surfactants Congress, taking place in Dublin, June 7-9, 2027.

Focus Areas: Key Surfactant Value Chains

CESIO 2027 will spotlight three major application areas that continue to define the surfactant industry. Household detergents remain the largest global segment for surfactant use and will once again be a central theme of the congress. Experts from both surfactant manufacturing and detergent formulation will share insights into product innovation, evolving consumer behavior and the impact of new legislative measures such as the EU Green Claims Directive and the Digital Product Passport.

In addition, personal care and cosmetics will be featured prominently. Dedicated sessions will explore formulation trends, sustainability efforts, and regulatory developments shaping the future of beauty and skincare products. In contrast to the well-established global events in personal care the focus will be on the technical aspects of surfactants as one of the major ingredients in personal care formulations.

Finally, agrochemicals represent another critical area where surfactants play a vital role. CESIO 2027 will offer a platform for discussing innovations in formulations, environmental considerations and market shifts that influence this essential industry.

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