In a world where technological developments and global challenges are increasingly intertwined, platforms such as Achema in Frankfurt are of central importance. As the world's leading trade fair for the process industry, it brings together expertise, research, new products, and solutions from the fields of chemistry, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, environmental technology, and process engineering. Every three years, the Frankfurt exhibition grounds become a meeting place for experts from industry, science, and politics. Achema is not only regarded as a showcase for the international process industry, but also as a global forum for the exchange of information on future technologies, regulatory developments, and social responsibility in industrial processes.
The trade fair covers the entire value chain of the process industry: from laboratory and analysis technology to chemical process engineering, mechanical and thermal processes, pumps, compressors, and fittings to packaging technology and industrial IT. Particularly striking is the increasing influence of digitalization and automation on almost all areas of industrial manufacturing. A key topic here is the integration of artificial intelligence into analysis and control systems. In plant planning and monitoring, too, more and more companies are relying on digital twins to reduce downtime and make processes more energy-efficient. The wide range of specialist suppliers, system providers, and software developers on show demonstrates that digitalization is no longer a topic for the future—it is a reality in everyday industrial life. Anyone interested in other industry events of this magnitude will find an extensive portfolio of international trade fairs covering industry, technology, and science at Frankfurt Trade Fair.
A key buzzword at Achema remains “green chemistry.” This refers not only to the development of sustainable chemical processes, but also to the economical use of resources and energy throughout the entire production chain. Many exhibitors are presenting technologies for CO₂ reduction, raw material recovery, and the integration of renewable energy sources into chemical production. Special attention is also being paid to hydrogen: whether as an energy source or a chemical raw material, H₂ is gaining ground in numerous applications. At Achema, developments relating to the production, storage, and industrial use of hydrogen will be presented in a special show.
In addition to chemistry, the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries are playing an increasingly important role at Achema. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought biotechnology to the forefront of international attention, and the trade fair will showcase the progress that has been made since then: from automated laboratory systems and new fermentation processes to modular production facilities for personalized medicines. One of the core topics is making production more flexible. Many companies are presenting modular systems that can be quickly adapted to new active ingredients or batch sizes—a decisive advantage in the globalized healthcare market, which is increasingly characterized by individualization and precision medicine.
Achema is aimed at a broad, highly qualified specialist audience. It addresses not only traditional plant manufacturers and chemical companies, but also pharmaceutical manufacturers, food technologists, energy suppliers, universities, and research institutes. The great strength of the trade fair lies in its interdisciplinary focus – here, experts from different industries meet on equal terms. Particularly exciting: small and medium-sized companies also gain visibility at Achema, for example in the innovation forum for start-ups or in specialized theme pavilions. This creates a space where visionary concepts find their place alongside proven technology.
A unique feature of Achema is the close integration of the trade fair and congress. Parallel to the exhibition, there is a comprehensive program of lectures that links scientific findings with industrial requirements. Over 800 speakers from all over the world present the latest research results, report on practical applications, or discuss socially relevant topics such as climate protection, ethics in chemistry, or regulatory requirements on a global level. Formats such as panel discussions, poster presentations, and best practice sessions provide space for dialogue—including between young talents and experienced industry players. This makes Achema not just a trade fair, but a think tank for the process industry.
With over 3,800 exhibitors from around 50 countries and more than 150,000 visitors from all over the world, Achema is one of the most international trade fairs around. This global orientation is also reflected in the diversity of topics and approaches—while energy efficiency and the circular economy dominate in Europe, other regions focus on issues of scalability, cost optimization, and infrastructure development are at the forefront. For internationally active companies, the trade fair is therefore not only an opportunity to present their products, but also a place for strategic exchange. Supply chains, raw material markets, regulatory issues—many global challenges can only be overcome together, and Achema provides the network for this.
The process industry is at a turning point. Climate change, geopolitical uncertainties, digitalization, and the growing demand for sustainable products are fundamentally changing the framework conditions. Achema shows that the industry is ready to face these challenges – with technical excellence, innovative strength, and an increasingly open attitude toward social responsibility. Anyone who wants to know what chemistry, pharmaceuticals, and process engineering might look like in ten years' time will find not only answers at Achema, but also inspiration to actively shape this change. Further information can be found on the organizer's website: www.achema.de