EU Launches Evaluation of Biocidal Products Regulation to Address Market and Safety Challenges

The Regulation governs the placing on the market and use of biocidal products—substances used to control pests and harmful organisms in sectors ranging from agriculture to public health. The initiative seeks feedback from all stakeholders across the value chain, including manufacturers, SMEs, consultants, NGOs and competent authorities.

Why the Regulation is Under Review

The Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR) has been in force since September 2013 and follows a two-step authorisation process: approval of active substances and subsequent authorisation of biocidal products containing them. However, delays in approvals, limited innovation and high regulatory burdens have raised concerns.

A 2021 implementation report highlighted critical shortcomings, including slow approval processes and insufficient uptake of innovative biocidal technologies. Currently, only about half of the active substance/product combinations have been assessed.

Key Areas of Focus

The evaluation will consider:

• Functioning of the internal market: Whether the Regulation has improved market efficiency across the EU.
• Health and environmental protection: Continued relevance of objectives amid emerging risks.
• Regulatory coherence: Alignment with related EU legislation including REACH, CLP and the Plant Protection Products Regulation.
• Administrative burden: Potential for simplification and digitalisation of compliance tasks.
• EU added value: Whether the Regulation provides benefits that could not be achieved by Member States alone.

Public and Stakeholder Engagement

The European Commission has launched a call for evidence alongside the public consultation, available in all 24 official EU languages. Respondents are invited to submit views through the “Have Your Say” platform.

Additionally, targeted consultations will be conducted with Member States, industry associations, SMEs, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) and civil society organisations. The process will include interviews, surveys and workshops, and a synopsis report will summarise input received.

Commission adoption of the revised legislation is planned for Q1 2027.

What It Means for Industry and Beyond

The evaluation carries significant implications for companies across sectors using biocidal products—from disinfectants and preservatives to pest control agents. Outcomes may affect product authorisation processes, compliance costs and innovation pipelines.

SMEs, in particular, could benefit from simplified procedures and reduced costs, while downstream users and supply chain partners must monitor emerging regulatory shifts to stay compliant.