EFSA Seeks Feedback on Overhaul of Weight of Evidence and Biological Relevance Guidance
EFSA launches consultation on updating its Weight of Evidence and Biological Relevance guidance, aiming to streamline chemical risk assessment practices.
The European Commission has updated Regulation (EU) No 649/2012, expanding the list of hazardous chemicals, including pesticides and industrial chemicals, that are subject to import and export controls. Effective from 1 March 2025, this regulation responds to recent international agreements and EU directives aimed at protecting public health and the environment.
Overview of the Regulation Update
On 15 October 2024, the European Commission adopted a Delegated Regulation, amending the previous framework (Regulation (EU) No 649/2012) governing the export and import of hazardous chemicals. This update includes new entries of pesticides and industrial chemicals, reflecting decisions taken at recent international conventions such as the Rotterdam and Stockholm Conventions.
These revisions come after significant consultations with stakeholders, including Member States, the European Chemicals Agency, and industry representatives, with public input provided between July and August 2024.
Chemicals Added to Annex I
The updated regulation includes substances such as benfluralin, benthiavalicarb, clofentezine, dimoxystrobin, and metiram, among others, which are now prohibited due to their non-renewal under Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009. Additionally, compounds like acrolein and warfarin have been newly classified as hazardous under the Stockholm Convention and will now face severe restrictions.
Legal Implications for Industry and Public Health
This regulation aims to align EU policy with global efforts to regulate the trade and use of hazardous chemicals, ensuring that public health and environmental standards are upheld. Chemicals such as perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS), known for their persistent organic pollutant properties, are now included in the export ban list under Annex V.
Substances used in plant protection, such as profenofos, ioxynil, and triflusulfuron-methyl, have also been banned from use in pesticides due to their potential health risks.
The Commission’s ongoing review of hazardous chemicals reflects its commitment to meeting international safety standards and protecting the environment. The inclusion of these chemicals in Annex I will significantly impact manufacturers, importers, and exporters dealing with such substances. Stakeholders are advised to review the regulation and prepare for its implementation by March 2025.
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