Brussels puts the brakes on REACH 2.0: Europe’s chemical regulation overhaul delayed until 2026
REACH 2.0. The long-awaited revision of the REACH Regulation has hit another obstacle. The European Commission’s Regulatory Scrutiny Board (RSB) has issued a negative opinion on the proposal, forcing the Commission to rethink and rework significant parts of the draft. As a result, REACH 2.0 will not be released before 2026, postponing a reform that is central to the future of the European chemical industry.
Why did the RSB reject the proposal?
The Board’s report points to serious shortcomings in three critical areas:
- Health and environmental risks are insufficiently addressed.
- Regulatory processes seen as slow, complex, and inefficient.
- Weak enforcement across the market, including imports and online trade.
Particular concern was raised over the lack of reliable data on polymers, exposure, and actual uses, a gap that clearly signals a move toward stricter information and transparency requirements in the future.
The revision, originally expected in 2022, had already suffered multiple delays — partly due to the Commission’s “simplification” agenda, criticised by NGOs for allegedly shielding industry interests at the expense of health and sustainability goals.
What does this mean for industry?
Far from being good news, the delay represents a strategic challenge for chemical manufacturers and importers.
- The demand for data and technical traceability will increase.
- Companies with robust regulatory management will gain a competitive edge.
- Those that react too late will fall behind.
- The EU’s message remains clear: “better compliance, not fewer rules.”
What should companies do now?
- Review and audit internal compliance strategies.
- Ensure the quality and consistency of dossiers and technical data.
- Invest in digitalisation and regulatory management tools.
- Build specialised teams — regulatory expertise will be decisive.
A delay is not a break.
The coming REACH reform will demand more preparation, greater transparency, and a forward-looking compliance strategy. The companies that start adapting now will set the pace in tomorrow’s European chemical market.
Need support with REACH compliance? Nordiik can help — contact us today.
Source: Enhesa
