The regulatory landscape for ethanol-based biocidal products in Europe is entering a significant new phase. Following years of scientific evaluation and regulatory discussion, the adoption of the opinion on ethanol as an active substance under Product-Types (PT) 1, 2 and 4 marks a significant milestone for manufacturers placing ethanol-based biocidal products on the EU market. While the European Commission’s final approval process is still to come, the direction of travel is becoming much clearer. For companies developing or marketing ethanol-based biocidal products, the focus should now shift from monitoring regulatory developments to preparing for authorisation under the Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR). Businesses that begin planning now will be better placed to avoid delays, maintain market access, and respond confidently when the new requirements take effect

EU and GB biocides regulations have extended key deadlines and data protection periods. Here's what the changes mean for compliance and market access.

ECHA launched the new Chesar Platform, integrating the Chesar and EUSES tools to provide a unified environment for chemical risk assessment and reporting.

On February 24, 2026, the Biocidal Products Committee (BPC) of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) supported the approval of ethanol for use in disinfectants.

On November 25, 2025, ECHA announced the launch of a public consultation to solicit information regarding candidates for substitution (CfS) and derogation conditions for two active substances.

On July 28, 2025, following the draft proposal to increase REACH registration fees, the European Commission passed Implementing Regulation No. 2025/1490, announcing an immediate increase in all official fees related to the approval of biocidal products. This adjustment reflects the cumulative inflation level of 19.5% between 2021 and 2023. Unlike the REACH draft, whose implementation date is yet to be determined, the new regulations for biocides will officially take effect on August 14, 2025, and will be directly applicable in all member states.

Companies are required to strictly follow the labeling and protective measures requirements to ensure the safe circulation of products on the market.

The Biocidal Products Committee (BPC) meeting was held in Helsinki, Finland, in February 2025. The meeting addressed the renewal evaluations of multiple active substances and the authorization of biocidal products. Below are the key discussions and outcomes:

Recently, South Korea's Ministry of Environment announced the approval of 15 biocidal products closely related to daily life, under the Consumer Chemical Products and Biocides Safety Act (K-BPR). These products include disinfectants, algicides, rodenticides, insecticides, and repellents.

The Biocidal Products Regulation Group (BPRS) is set to launch a new enforcement project (BEF-3) in January 2025.