EU ministers push for tougher REACH enforcement and digitalisation
European Union environment ministers have demanded urgent action to close enforcement gaps and accelerate digitalisation within the bloc’s REACH chemical regulation. During an Environment Council meeting, member states warned that weak controls on imports and online sales undermine consumer safety and damage industrial competitiveness.
Addressing the import enforcement gap
A primary concern for ministers is the persistent non-compliance of imported substances. Romania highlighted data showing that a third of imported chemical substances are unregistered, while 16% breach EU rules. This creates severe health risks and unfair competition for European companies. France reinforced this stance, demanding a level playing field and insisting that non-compliant, dangerous products must be blocked from entering the market.
The rise of e-commerce has worsened these enforcement challenges. Denmark and Estonia urged the European Commission to halt the flow of illegal products entering the EU via online platforms. To combat this, ministers advocated for enhanced coordination between customs, market surveillance, and chemical authorities, alongside stricter accountability for digital marketplaces.
Digitalisation and future restrictions
Digitalisation emerged as a vital tool to modernise the framework without increasing regulatory complexity. Member states, including Latvia and the Netherlands, broadly supported digitising safety data sheets (SDSs) to streamline information exchange and reduce administrative burdens. Digital tools will also enable data-sharing across supply chains and allow authorities to conduct targeted, risk-based inspections.
Beyond compliance, the regulation of substances of concern remains a priority. The European Chemicals Agency is currently assessing a restriction dossier for PFAS, with a formal proposal expected after evaluations conclude.
While debate persists over whether to fully reopen the REACH legislation—with Germany warning against regulatory uncertainty—the immediate trajectory is clear. Businesses must prepare for intensified scrutiny. Companies operating within the EU market will face stricter import compliance, advanced digital reporting expectations, and faster restrictions on hazardous chemicals.
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Source: Enhesa
