EU to Revise POPs Regulation, Tightening PBDE Limits
On July 24, 2025, the European Commission adopted a draft amendment to the Regulation on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs), focusing on polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). The amendment proposes to lower the limit for tetra-, penta-, hexa-, hepta-, and decaBDE to ≤10 mg/kg, both individually and as the sum in mixtures and articles.
Transitional exemptions are proposed for recycled materials, toys, and childcare articles, allowing phased compliance with the new limits. The final regulation is expected to be published soon.
Taiwan Proposes to List 269 PFAS as Concerned Chemical Substances
In response to the environmental persistence, bioaccumulation, and potential health risks of PFAS, Taiwan's Ministry of Environment has released a draft regulation under the Toxic and Concerned Chemical Substances Control Act (TCCSCA). The draft proposes to designate 269 PFAS as "concerned chemical sub-stances" effective 1 January 2026. This measure provides a clear legal framework for PFAS management in Taiwan, aligning with global regulatory trends.
China's RoHS mandatory standard GB 26572-2025 released
On August 1, 2025, the mandatory national standard GB 26572-2025 "Requirements for the restricted use of hazardous substances in electrical and electronic products" was released and will come into force on 1 August 2027. The standard specifies 10 restricted substances, including Pb, Cd, Hg, Cr(VI), PBBs, PBDEs, DBP, DIBP, BBP and DEHP. Except that the limit value for cadmium is 0.01%, while the limits for the other nine substances are 0.1%. It also stipulates that the testing methods shall be in accordance with the GB/T 39560 series. In addition, the standard clearly puts forward requirements for labeling, disclosure of information on contained hazardous substances, and preservation of technical support documents, so as to ensure traceability and verifiability of hazardous-substance controls.
Saudi Arabia to update RoHS regulation, adding four phthalates to restricted list
In July 2025, Saudi Arabia submitted a notification to WTO regarding the draft revision to its technical regulation on hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (EEE). Designed to align more closely with the EU RoHS Directive, the draft adds DEHP, BBP, DBP and DIBP, bringing the total number of restricted substances to ten. Its limits are also harmonized with the EU RoHS (0.01% for cadmium and 0.1% for all other regulated substances). The scope covers ten categories, including large household appliances and wearable devices, while medical equipment remains exempt. Additionally, the draft refines manufacturers' obligations, clarifies compliance responsibilities across the industrial chain, and requires domestic manufacturers and importers to obtain a certificate of conformity from an approved body. The regulation will enter into force 180 days after publication in the country's official gazette, and industries will be granted a transition period of up to one year.
Japan Amends Standards for Food Contact Materials
In May 2025, Japan issued Cabinet Office Notification No. 95 under the Food Sanitation Act (JFSL, Act No. 233 of 1947), amending the Standards for Foods, Food Additives, etc. (Notification No. 370 of 1959, Ministry of Health and Welfare). The notification took effect on June 1, 2025.
The revised testing methods and specifications will apply from 1 June 2026. Food-contact materials (utensils, containers, and packaging) manufactured, imported or sold before 1 June 2027 may continue to comply with the previous requirements.
This amendment refines testing methods, substance listings, limit values, and classification standards, bringing Japan's framework closer in line with international FCM regulations, enhancing food safety, and facilitating international trade.