BASF's bid for Evonik sparks political push for state intervention

The world's largest chemical group, BASF, has announced intentions to purchase Evonik, Germany's second-largest chemical firm. Evonik's headquarters are in Essen, with its main plant near Marl. Concerned about potential job losses, the SPD faction in the Düsseldorf Landtag has called on the black-green state government to consider a public stake in Evonik. The proposal aims to protect employment and maintain the industry's footprint in North Rhine-Westphalia.