Job Cuts at Arkema and Vencorex Shake France's Chemical Industry

Arkema announces 154 layoffs following the collapse of supplier Vencorex, sparking fears of a broader industrial and economic impact in the region.

Arkema plans to eliminate 154 jobs at its Jarrie plant after Vencorex, its primary supplier of industrial salt, entered judicial restructuring and ceased deliveries.
Vencorex's only takeover offer, from Chinese competitor Wanhua, could preserve just 54 of its 464 jobs, prompting widespread criticism and calls for government intervention.
Union leaders and local officials warn the closures could trigger a domino effect across France's chemical sector, endangering thousands of jobs and critical supply chains.
The French government has ruled out nationalizing Vencorex, instead proposing a site reconversion plan, which unions and local representatives view as vague and insufficient.
Environmental concerns have been raised over the unmanaged salt mines at Pont-de-Claix, which could pose ecological risks if operations cease without proper measures.