Malta has introduced new amendments to its regulations under the Product Safety Act, specifically targeting hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment. The amendments, which transpose the EU Delegated Directive (2024/1416), will come into force on 1 January 2025, and focus on cadmium use in LED and display technologies.
Cadmium Exemptions Clarified
The Restriction of Use of Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment (Amendment No. 3) Regulations, 2024, update Schedule III of the principal regulations to allow limited exemptions for cadmium applications. These exemptions include:
- Cadmium selenide in quantum dots for display lighting: Limited to <0.2 μg Cd per mm² of screen area, this exemption expires on 21 November 2025.
- Cadmium in semiconductor nanocrystal quantum dots on LED chips: Allowed for display and projection applications with limits of <5 μg Cd per mm² of LED chip surface and a maximum device content of 1 mg. This exemption ends on 31 December 2027.
Compliance Deadlines
The updated provisions ensure Malta’s alignment with EU environmental standards, allowing temporary cadmium use while promoting safer alternatives. Companies must adhere to the specified limits and timelines or face penalties under the overarching Product Safety Act.
For further information, businesses are advised to consult the Department of Information or relevant authorities.
