GPC's Regulatory Newsletter | May 2025
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North America
Canada Acts Against PFAS Chemicals
Canada is taking decisive action against per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as "forever chemicals," due to their harmful persistence in the environment. The first phase begins in 2025 and targets firefighting foams and non-essential products. There will be mandatory reporting to the National Pollutant Registry Inventory (NPRI) and the public consultation period is open until May 7, 2025 Read more.
USA Extends TSCA Reporting Deadlines
The US EPA has extended deadlines for submitting health and safety data on 16 chemicals under TSCA. The new deadline for vinyl chloride is June 11, 2025, and for the remaining 15 substances, it is September 9, 2025 Read more.
Latin America
Brazil Opens Consultation on UDI Data for Medical Devices
Anvisa is accepting feedback on draft instructions for UDI data submission under RDC 591. The consultation period ends May 26, 2025, and implementation is scheduled for July 1, 2025 Read more.
Europe
EU Approves ‘One Substance One Assessment’ Chemicals Package
On April 1, 2025, the European Parliament adopted a package aimed at streamlining chemical assessments. The package introduces a central data platform, reallocates responsibilities among EU agencies, and amends the RoHS Directive to improve consistency in safety evaluations Read more.
EU Proposes Major REACH Revisions at CARACAL-54
The EU presented ambitious REACH reform plans targeting simplification, digitalisation, and stronger enforcement. Key changes include an overhaul of the registration process, improved evaluation, targeted authorisation, and enhanced market surveillance. Final adoption is expected by the end of 2025 Read more.
New EU Toy Safety Regulation Finalised
A new Regulation will replace the 2009 Toy Safety Directive and introduce stricter chemical limits, PFAS control, digital product passports, and tighter rules for online marketplaces. The Regulation includes a 30–48-month transition period for different obligations Read more.
UK Regulates Methyl Salicylate in Cosmetics
The UK has set concentration limits for methyl salicylate in cosmetic products intended for children. The Regulation takes effect on September 30, 2025, and products already on the market may be sold until March 31, 2026 Read more.
UK Parliament Launches PFAS Inquiry
The Environmental Audit Committee has launched an inquiry into PFAS contamination in the UK. Stakeholders are invited to submit evidence by May 26, 2025, to help assess the robustness of the regulations and their environmental impact Read more.
Ukraine Launches CLP Notification Form
Ukraine has introduced a standardized CLP form for hazard classification under the UA-CLP. Companies must submit notifications by November 15, 2025, or within 30 days of market placement Read more.
Switzerland Proposes Amendments to Align with EU Chemical Rules
Switzerland plans to ban public access to CMR substances and update its chemical classification rules. The changes will take effect on August 1, 2025 Read more.
India
India Launches Global Tariff and Trade Helpdesk
India’s new DGFT Helpdesk assists exporters and importers who encounter tariff, regulatory, or logistical issues. Users can submit and track issues online or via email or by calling a toll-free number Read more.
India Permits Recycled Plastics in Food Packaging
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) now permits the use of certain recycled plastics in food packaging under strict safety and traceability standards. The regulation took effect on March 28, 2025, and requires compliance with approved recycling methods Read more.
India Revises MSME Criteria
Effective April 1, 2025, India has increased investment and turnover thresholds for MSMEs to expand eligibility and support growth. This change is expected to improve access to government schemes and financial aid Read more.
East Asia
China Seeks Feedback on PFCA Controls under Stockholm Convention
China’s MEE is consulting on draft lists of long-chain PFCA chemicals. Industries are encouraged to review the list and submit feedback by May 19, 2025, to help shape future compliance requirements Read more.
South Korea Proposes K-REACH Amendments
South Korea's proposed K-REACH amendments aim to improve transparency in cost-sharing and OR transitions during joint chemical registration. Public feedback was collected in February 2025 and the review is ongoing Read more.
South Korea Updates Hazard Evaluation Results
K-REACH revisions now disclose the names of previously protected chemicals and update hazard assessments for 29 substances. Public comments are open until April 28, 2025 Read more.
Taiwan Drafts Updates on New Chemical Registrations
Taiwan’s Ministry of Labor has proposed regulation changes to avoid duplication with the Ministry of Environment. Public comments are open until May 6, 2025 Read more.
Japan Adds 17 Chemicals to Mutagen List
Japan’s MHLW added 17 substances to its list of strong mutagens, bringing the total to 1363. Stakeholders must comply with strict safety, labelling, and recordkeeping rules Read more.
South East Asia
Vietnam Publishes Draft of New Chemical Law
Vietnam’s revised Law on Chemicals, effective January 1, 2026, will expand its scope, introduce new licensing and compliance rules, and align with global standards such as GHS Read more.
Philippines Launches National Plastic Action Partnership
The National Plastic Action Partnership (NPAP) brings together stakeholders to combat plastic pollution and support a circular economy. The initiative includes a roadmap and aims to integrate the informal sectors into the solution Read more.
Malaysia Clarifies Position on Dechlorane Plus and UV-328
Malaysia will not register exemptions for these POPs under the Stockholm Convention because it has not ratified the agreement. Companies are advised to consult DOE or DOSH for guidance Read more.
Thailand Revises Labelling Rules for Fluoride Cosmetics
Thailand is updating labelling standards for fluoride-containing toothpaste and mouthwash. New warnings and dosage guidelines are proposed, with a one-year transition period Read more.
Oceania
Australia Proposes New IChEMS Environmental Standards
Australia’s DCCEEW outlined new standards for managing harmful chemicals such as DBDPE, mercury, and MMT. These standards will take effect between 2026 and 2027 under the IChEMS framework Read more.
Middle East
Gulf Countries Update Pesticide MRLs
Seven GCC nations submitted revised maximum residue limits for pesticides in food and agricultural goods to the WTO. Stakeholders can comment until June 15, 2025 Read more.
Africa
South Africa Phases Out Mercury-Added Products
Starting April 2025, South Africa’s new mercury regulations will ban several products and introduce strict controls on trade, use, and storage. The use of dental amalgam will be significantly limited Read more.
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May 8, 2025, 12:30-12:30 CET / 16 - 17:30 IST: Navigating Chemical Compliance in India: Challenges and Solutions Register Here.
May 15, 2025, 12:30-12:30 CET / 16 - 17:30 IST: EU Rules on Sunscreen Products: Current Situation and Perspectivesn Register Here.
May 22, 2025, 12:30-12:30 CET / 16 - 17:30 IST: Asian Cosmetic Regulations: ASEAN Japan Korea China – a global and summarized perspective Register Here.
May 23, 2025, 12:30-12:30 CET / 16 - 17:30 IST: Understanding UA REACH: Navigating Ukraine’s New Chemical Safety Regulations Register Here.
May 27, 2025, 11:30-13:00 CET / 15 - 16:30 IST: Masterclass on Chemical Regulations across Southeast Asia Register Here.