In 2006 and 2007, the Union des Industries Chimiques (UIC, Paris / France; www.uic.fr) and the Directorate General for Industry (DGE), which comes under the French Ministry of Economic Affairs, are spending several hundred million euros to support SMEs in respect of REACH (Regulation, Evaluation and Authorisation of Chemicals). Companies are being offered four options in the framework of the programme: free half-day seminars; two-day meetings for more in-depth coverage; special activities over the length of the value-added chain, involving manufacturers and customers from the same sector; and individual consultancy and support. REACH affects some 800 small and medium-sized enterprises in France, says the UIC.

Three information events are planned for 2006: 28-29 June (Paris); 26-27 September (Rouen); 6-7 December (Alsace). Contact: Catherine Lequime, Tel.: +33 146 531126; E-mail: clequime@uic.fr