Regulatory News & Updates - Page 2

Engineered Biofertilizers Face Regulatory Uncertainty as GAO Flags U.S. Policy Gaps

Engineered biofertilizers offer cost, yield, and environmental benefits but face regulatory ambiguity in the U.S. Clarifying definitions and frameworks will be essential to unlock innovation, ensure compliance, and maintain competitiveness in a growing global market.

10 April 2026

EPA PFAS Reporting Rule Delay Extends Compliance Timeline to 2027

The EPA has delayed the PFAS reporting start date to 2027, giving industry more time to prepare for TSCA compliance. While easing short-term pressure, the rule maintains extensive reporting obligations, requiring companies to strengthen data systems and supply chain transparency ahead of enforcement.

10 April 2026

Agricultural spraying equipment in a crop field

Glyphosate regulation calls intensify after Seattle public health statement

The Seattle Statement intensifies calls for stricter glyphosate regulation, citing strong evidence of cancer and systemic health risks. It urges immediate policy action, improved risk assessment, and reduced pesticide reliance, signalling significant compliance and innovation challenges across the chemicals and agricultural sectors.

10 April 2026

REACH Committee Reviews Lead, Chromium VI and CMR Measures

The February 2026 REACH Committee meeting focused on reviewing draft restrictions and authorisations for lead, chromium VI and CMR substances. While no major measures were finalised, the discussions indicate continued regulatory scrutiny and signal important developments ahead of expected votes in April.

10 April 2026

Laboratory researchers in a biomedical lab

SUPER BUGS Act 2026 Signals New Global Strategy for Pandemic Product Development

The SUPER BUGS Act 2026 establishes a global framework for pandemic product development, targeting antimicrobial resistance and international collaboration. It introduces regulatory, commercial, and supply chain implications for chemicals and manufacturing stakeholders, reinforcing the need for proactive compliance and strategic positioning.

10 April 2026

California PFAS Pesticide Ban Proposal Sets 2030 and 2035 Phase-Out Deadlines

California lawmakers have introduced AB 1603, a sweeping PFAS regulation targeting pesticides, with progressive restrictions and a full ban by 2035.

3 April 2026

EU Water Policy Update Targets PFAS and Pharmaceuticals in Major Directive Revision

The EU has adopted a major update to its water policy framework, introducing tighter controls on PFAS, pharmaceuticals and bisphenols.

3 April 2026

Laboratory glassware on a bench in a scientific setting

Australia Opens Consultation on IChEMS Proposed Standards for Industrial Chemicals

Australia has launched a public consultation on new IChEMS proposed standards covering 14 industrial chemicals and one variation, with submissions open until 24 April 2026.

3 April 2026

US chemical plant with industrial equipment

TSCA Reform Proposals Target Predictability and Supply Chain Resilience in US Chemicals Policy

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has called for targeted TSCA reform to address delays and regulatory uncertainty in US chemicals policy.

3 April 2026

Chemical manufacturing site with industrial tanks and pipework

UK REACH ATRm Reforms Reduce Transitional Registration Burden and Signal Closer EU Alignment

The UK government has confirmed significant changes to UK REACH ATRm requirements, reducing the data burden for companies re-registering chemicals.

3 April 2026

Industrial materials facility with compliance staff and processing equipment

EU PFAS restriction consultation intensifies as ECHA seeks evidence on derogations

The EU PFAS restriction consultation marks a shift toward evidence-based decision-making. Stakeholder submissions will inform whether derogations remain justified and proportionate, shaping compliance obligations and market impacts as Europe advances controls on persistent chemicals.

26 March 2026

European Court of Justice buildings in Luxembourg

ClientEarth v European Commission reinforces transparency rules on mancozeb and cypermethrin decisions

ClientEarth v European Commission confirms that the Commission must justify refusals to disclose pesticide-related documents with specific evidence. While reinforcing transparency around mancozeb and cypermethrin decision-making, the ruling preserves important limits where disclosure could undermine court proceedings, signalling a more balanced but stricter application of EU access-to-documents rules.

25 March 2026

European chemical plant with storage tanks and process towers

CoRAP update 2026–2028 flags 27 substances for REACH evaluation

The CoRAP update 2026–2028 identifies 27 substances for evaluation under REACH, focusing on persistent, toxic and endocrine-disrupting chemicals. The plan underscores growing regulatory scrutiny and requires proactive data management, risk assessment and supply chain adjustments across the chemicals industry.

24 March 2026

Industrial workers using respiratory protective equipment in a solvent facility

EPA Proposes TSCA Compliance Date Extensions for PCE and Carbon Tetrachloride

The EPA’s proposed TSCA compliance extensions for PCE and carbon tetrachloride provide industry with additional time to implement complex worker protection measures. While maintaining strict exposure limits, the revised timeline reflects operational realities and aims to ensure durable, enforceable compliance across the chemicals value chain.

24 March 2026

UK POPs Regulation 2026 consultation targets new chemical restrictions and compliance duties

Defra’s UK POPs Regulation 2026 consultation proposes adding five substances to the prohibition list, alongside new thresholds and exemptions. With implementation expected by December 2026, businesses must assess supply chain exposure, regulatory divergence and transition requirements.

20 March 2026

International delegates in a treaty negotiation meeting

Plastic Pollution Treaty Roadmap Sets 2026 Timeline for INC-5.4 Negotiations

The plastic pollution treaty roadmap sets a clear structure for 2026 negotiations ahead of INC-5.4. With regular meetings and a planned reference document, the process is gaining clarity. While policy details remain undefined, stakeholders should prepare for a legally binding global framework.

20 March 2026

Worker cutting engineered stone with respiratory protection

UK Silica Dust (Exposure) Bill signals proposed tighter controls on occupational health risks

The Silica Dust (Exposure) Bill proposes new UK measures to address occupational silica exposure, including screening and restrictions on high-risk practices. While still under review, it highlights growing regulatory focus on worker health and may prompt businesses to reassess dust control and compliance strategies.

20 March 2026

Chemical hazard compliance materials on a desk

CLP Annex VI update: EU proposes major transfer of SVHC and hazardous substances

The proposed CLP Annex VI update introduces harmonised classifications for over 100 hazardous substances, including SVHCs, PFAS and endocrine disruptors. The changes will impact labelling, safety data and product formulation across multiple sectors, requiring early compliance planning and supply chain engagement.

20 March 2026

Industrial production equipment associated with fluorinated materials

US PFAS phaseout bill proposes sweeping ban under Forever Chemical Regulation Act 2026

The Forever Chemical Regulation Act of 2026 proposes a 10-year phaseout of nonessential PFAS uses, strict reporting obligations and accelerated bans in consumer products. If adopted, it would significantly impact manufacturing, supply chains and compliance strategies, reinforcing global momentum towards eliminating persistent fluorinated chemicals.

19 March 2026

Japan Hazardous Substance Reporting Amendments Enter Public Consultation Phase

Japan’s hazardous substance reporting amendments are open for public consultation until 16 April 2026. The changes clarify reporting scope, refine obligations for specific substance categories and standardise data requirements. Companies should review the draft now to prepare for expected implementation in May 2026.

18 March 2026