AVEQ-KIMIKA and TECNALIA join forces to boost innovation in the chemical industry
- The two entities have entered into an agreement whose main areas of action include the development of new products, improvements in manufacturing processes, decarbonisation of the sector or the commitment to energy efficiency
- This agreement is part of the sector's commitment to innovation
- In 2024, the chemical industry in Spain allocated 24% of its investment to innovation and technological improvements
In Bilbao, on XX September 2025 The Basque Association of Chemical Companies (AVEQ-KIMIKA) has entered into a collaboration agreement with TECNALIA, the largest applied research and technological development centre in Spain, in which both entities strengthen ties to collaborate in the promotion of innovation in the chemical industry.
The agreement between AVEQ-KIMIKA and TECNALIA focuses on a series of areas of action, including the development of new chemical products with advanced characteristics, the optimisation of existing manufacturing processes, the digitalisation of processes, products, and services, the promotion of the circular economy, the incorporation of artificial intelligence and, in short, improving innovation management in the sector. In addition, strategies to advance the sector’s decarbonisation will be addressed, exploring energy efficiency solutions, and the integration of alternative energy sources.
New technological solutions that improve process efficiency and reduce energy consumption
The signing of this agreement comes at a key moment for the chemical sector, which continues to demonstrate its investment capacity and its commitment to innovation. In 2024, the sector invested a total of 2,000 million euros, 24% of which was spent on innovation and technological improvements. These investments are aimed at developing new technological solutions that improve process efficiency and reduce energy consumption, as well as reducing carbon emissions.
- The secretary general of AVEQ-KIMIKA, Luis Blanco-Urgoiti, pointed out that "this agreement is essential to promote innovation in our member companies, driving the development of new products and improvements in manufacturing processes. It will enable us to jointly address the crucial challenges of the decarbonisation of the sector, move forward in the deployment of the Circular Economy and explore the possibilities offered by electrification and the use of alternative energy sources. This strategic step consolidates a path of progress for the Basque chemical industry".
- He also considers that through the development of R&D&I projects, the provision of technological services, training activities and specialised workshops, "we are strengthening the competitiveness of our industry and ensuring its significant impact on the local economy, job creation and technological development and innovation in the area". "It is a firm commitment to sustainable growth and being at the technological helm of the sector," he insisted.
- Jose Luis Elejalde, Director of Energy, Climate and Urban Transition at TECNALIA explained that "the collaboration is key to strengthening our capacities and, therefore, agreements like this boost the competitiveness of companies. That is precisely TECNALIA's objective: to help industry and transform companies' needs into competitive advantages through technology. We must anticipate the increasingly rapid changes in society and markets, and rely on new technologies, taking advantage of them and incorporating them into our lives and companies. Now, innovation is more strategic than ever”.
Through this agreement, AVEQ-KIMIKA and TECNALIA are committed to promoting a more innovative and sustainable future for the chemical industry, consolidating its position as a benchmark in the adoption of new technologies and more sustainable and efficient practices.
About TECNALIA
TECNALIA is the largest applied research and technological development centre in Spain, a European benchmark and member of the Basque Research and Technology Alliance. We work with companies and institutions to increase their competitiveness, quality of life of people and achieve sustainable growth. We do so thanks to people who are passionate about technology and committed to building a better society. Its main areas of action are: smart manufacturing, digital transformation, energy transition, sustainable mobility, health and food, urban ecosystem and circular economy.
In the latest brand awareness and positioning study carried out by the European Research Survey (ERS) in 2022, TECNALIA tops the list regarding R&D&I brand awareness.
About AVEQ-KIMIKA
The Basque Association of Chemical Companies (AVEQ‑KIMIKA) brings together more than 120 companies from all the chemical sub-sectors in the Basque Country (refining, plastics, rubber, glass and R&D), from large industries to micro-SMEs that are committed to improving the sustainability of their activity, based on strict compliance with regulations. It is also the employers' association and representative of chemical companies in the Basque Country, defending their interests before government bodies, regulators and other interested parties.
The Basque chemical industry generates annual turnover of around €7.3 billion and accounts for 13% of the Basque Country's industrial GDP, as well as accounting for 12% of industrial investment. With 6,838 direct jobs, it maintains a highly qualified workforce - 94% permanent jobs and an average annual salary of over €40,000 gross - reflecting its high added value.
