Member type: Full Member (through Cefic) + RCLG

Chemical industry
Reconstruction of Estonia’s chemical industry has resulted in higher sales and output volumes although employment has fallen to around half of 1997’s level of over 8,000 workers. Output is still significantly below the levels of developed countries. In 2006, value added per employee in Estonia was less than a quarter of that of nearby Finland, for example.  The sector was traditionally linked to oil shale but has diversified into other areas including adhesive resins, paints and varnishes, fertilisers and pharmaceuticals.

In 2006 and ‘07, output grew 6%. Sales revenues rose due to higher exports and prices and in 2007 the number of employees increased for the first time in several years. Domestic sales of chemical products rose 4%; growth was mainly supported by exports which accounted for 80% of revenues.  Investment in ’07 was up 75% on 2006, with the biggest increase in the oil shale products sector. 

National association
The Estonian Association of Chemical Industry Eesti Keemiatööstuse Liit - EKTL) is a non-profit organization that represents its members in government organizations, participates in creating relevant legislative acts, and develops international relations. EKTL also provides and updates information services for members, co-operates with similar organizations and chambers of commerce in other countries, identifies co-operation partners, supports common activities and provides training.

 
Member companies (32 in 2008) are involved in production of raw materials (including shale oils), also paints, varnishes and construction chemicals, specialties, plastics, chemicals transport and research.
EKTL is a member of Cefic and participated in the harmonization process of its chemicals legislation with EU laws under the Baltic Environmental Forum. The association represents both its members and employers in multilateral negotiations with trade unions and government.