REACH EU Inspections Reveal Infringements in Imported Chemicals and Consumer Products
REACH EU Inspections uncover widespread non-compliance
EU enforcement inspections have revealed significant regulatory infringements in imported substances, mixtures, and consumer products entering the European market.
A coordinated project by the ECHA Enforcement Forum focused on REACH compliance for imported products across the EEA.
Inspectors from 29 EEA countries carried out 2,603 targeted inspections, often in cooperation with customs and national authorities.
The findings showed that one out of three substances in imported mixtures lacked REACH registration.
For substances imported on their own, registration was missing in seven percent of cases, a higher rate than in previous projects.
Many importers were unaware of the substances contained in their mixtures, increasing the risk of REACH registration violations.
Restricted hazardous substances found in consumer goods
Authorities also checked over 1,300 imported mixtures and consumer products for REACH restriction compliance.
Sixteen percent contained restricted hazardous substances above legal limits, posing potential risks to human health.
Most inspections focused on imported jewellery, especially for nickel, cadmium, and lead content. The results showed no improvement in jewellery compliance, with heavy metals still frequently detected.
Toys and textiles were also inspected, confirming persistent non-compliance in imported consumer products.
Authorisation failures and enforcement actions
Inspectors reviewed REACH authorisation duties for substances of very high concern (SVHCs).
Out of 21 cases, authorisation was missing or expired in four instances. Almost all non-compliant products identified before market release were blocked or required corrective measures.
According to the Enforcement Forum, targeted inspections and customs cooperation improve enforcement efficiency.
The project highlights the need for well-prepared importers and proactive compliance strategies. Importers should secure analytical reports and compliance evidence before goods enter the EU market.
Although inspections targeted high-risk products, the results show that imported product infringements remain a serious concern.
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Source: ECHA
