
European Economic AreaBiocidal Products Regulation (BPR)
Hydrochloric Acid Biocide Approval Extended: Stakeholder Impacts
The European Commission has announced the postponement of the expiry date for the approval of hydrochloric acid in biocidal products of product-type 2. This decision, detailed in Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2023/2619, extends the approval until 31 October 2026. This article delves into the details of this decision, its implications for stakeholders, and how Foresight's solutions can assist in navigating these changes.
Published in January 2024. Dates, deadlines and stages may have changed since.
2 min readAI-drafted, expert reviewed

The European Commission has announced the postponement of the expiry date for the approval of hydrochloric acid in biocidal products of product-type 2. This decision, detailed in Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2023/2619, extends the approval until 31 October 2026. This article delves into the details of this decision, its implications for stakeholders, and how Foresight's solutions can assist in navigating these changes.
Understanding The Decision
The initial approval of hydrochloric acid for use in product-type 2 biocidal products was set to expire on 30 April 2024. However, following an application for renewal and a subsequent comprehensive evaluation process, the European Commission, in consultation with the Standing Committee on Biocidal Products, has decided to extend this deadline. This extension is crucial to allow sufficient time for the evaluation of the renewal application by the evaluating competent authority and the European Chemicals Agency.
Implications For Stakeholders
Continued Use: Stakeholders can continue using hydrochloric acid in product-type 2 biocidal products until the new expiry date. This ensures no disruption in current manufacturing and commercial processes.
Compliance Obligations: Entities must remain vigilant in complying with the conditions set out in Annex I to Directive 98/8/EC. Non-compliance can lead to regulatory actions, including fines and revocation of product approvals.
Preparation for Future Changes: Stakeholders should prepare for potential changes in the approval status post-2026. This includes staying informed about the outcome of the ongoing evaluation and any new regulatory requirements that may emerge.
The extension of the approval of hydrochloric acid for use in biocidal products of product-type 2 is a crucial development for stakeholders in the chemicals industry. It is essential for businesses to understand the implications of this decision and take appropriate actions to ensure compliance.

Dr Steven Brennan
CEO and co-founder of Foresight, and a co-opted member of ECHA's Committee for Socio-economic Analysis. He holds a PhD in chemical engineering.
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