In April 2011, UNITAR and the Association of International Chemical Manufacturers (AICM) established a framework agreement to allow the two organizations to develop and implement projects and activities and pursue other forms of cooperation. Specific areas of focus will include, inter alia:

  • Assisting China and other developing countries and emerging economies with the introduction of compliance monitoring systems for chemicals and strengthening of existing programmes for the harmonization of national regulations on chemical safety based on the GHS (Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals);
  • Involving governmental agencies, NGOs, academia and the private sector for the development and implementation of National GHS Implementation Strategies in developing countries and emerging economies; and
  • Raising awareness of the relevant sectors about the GHS and its benefits for sustainable development.

As a first event held under the auspices of the agreement, AICM and UNITAR/ILO co-organized an “International Workshop on GHS Implementation” in Beijing, China, on 19-20 April 2011. The workshop centered around the themes of "GHS Implementation Status and Future in China", “GHS Implementation around the world", "Best Practices Sharing of Chemical Industry", and provided a platform for communication between national regulatory agencies and the chemical industry in China. More than 150 representatives from government, international organizations and associations, and 55 multinational companies attended the workshop.

The Association of International Chemical Manufacturers (AICM) represents 40 major foreign investments in the chemical industry of China, whose members’ business covers the manufacture, transportation, distribution and disposal of chemicals. Five of AICM members are ranked World Top 10 Enterprises and 28 members stood among World Top 50 Chemical Enterprises and 31 members have signed the Responsible Care Global Charter initiated by ICCA.

The workshop was also a contribution to a wider EU-funded project on the GHS in Asia.

For more information, please visit the UNITAR/ILO GHS Capacity Building Programme.

Share with