The European Union (EU) has confirmed that its scientific evaluation of a proposed restriction on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) will be completed by the end of 2026. Covering more than 10,000 substances, the measure represents one of the most comprehensive regulatory undertakings in the chemical sector, with significant implications for manufacturers, importers, and downstream users across the value chain.
Review Targets 14 Core Sectors Across the EU/EEA
The restriction proposal, submitted by authorities from Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden, has been under evaluation by the EU’s scientific committees for Risk Assessment (RAC) and Socio-Economic Analysis (SEAC) since March 2023.
More than 5,600 stakeholder responses were received during the consultation period, reflecting high engagement across industry, NGOs, academia, and public authorities. These responses informed updates to the Background Document now guiding committee evaluations.
Additional Sectors Identified—but Not Fully Reviewed
Eight further sectors—such as printing applications, military uses, and technical textiles—were identified during consultation. However, these will not undergo sector-specific evaluation within the current timeline. Instead, the EU will address them through broader regulatory mechanisms covering:
- Hazard assessment
- Risk management measures
- Emissions control and reporting obligations
This approach allows the committees to maintain their goal of concluding opinions on the original sectors, PFAS manufacturing, and horizontal issues by the end of 2025.
Regulatory Impact and Strategic Considerations
According to the EU Chemicals Industry Action Plan (July 2025), the Commission is committed to proposing legislation as soon as it receives RAC and SEAC’s final opinions. The objective is to significantly reduce PFAS emissions while ensuring regulatory clarity for affected stakeholders.
Organisations are encouraged to begin preparations, including:
- Assessing PFAS use within their supply chains
- Identifying and testing alternative substances
- Preparing for new compliance and reporting requirements
Early action will be critical for mitigating risk and ensuring continuity under the forthcoming regulatory framework.
