This issue covers critical regulatory developments worldwide—including expanded EU controls under REACH and POPs, South Korea’s GCORAS inaugural cosmetic summit, tight greenwashing enforcement via the EU ECGT Directive, and the FDA’s acceptance of new food color additive petitions. Read on to stay informed on key deadlines, supply chain impacts, and essential strategies to ensure global compliance.

Chemical news

Taiwan, China Amends Labeling and Hazard Communication Regulations, New Requirements Effective from 2029

Taiwan’s Ministry of Labor has updated its hazardous‑chemical labeling and SDS regulations to reflect UN GHS Rev. 8 and CNS 15030, adding desensitized explosives, subdividing flammable gases, restructuring aerosol classes and tightening sensitizer thresholds to 0.1%. SDS format changes include new physical‑property fields and revised transport information, with full implementation due January 1, 2029. Immediate obligations include an SDS error‑correction mechanism, stricter CBI limits and updated exemption rules. Companies should reassess classifications and plan phased SDS/label updates. ➡️Read more

EU Releases Latest REACH Restrictions Roadmap

The Commission’s updated REACH Restrictions Roadmap outlines 15 adopted restrictions, 9 measures nearing final decision, and dozens of substances advancing through consultation or early assessment—including PFAS, new CMR groups, lead uses, octocrylene and hexavalent chromium. Annexes map future priorities such as endocrine‑disrupting bisphenols, non‑polymeric brominated flame retardants and tire‑related 6PPD. The roadmap confirms the EU’s shift toward grouped, rolling controls and accelerated phase‑out of high‑risk chemicals, reinforcing substitution as a core compliance strategy. ➡️Read more

EU Releases CBAM Verification and Accreditation Operational Guidelines

The Commission has released comprehensive CBAM Verification and Accreditation Guidelines, defining processes, assurance principles and data‑quality requirements for third‑party verifiers assessing embedded emissions in CBAM goods. The guidance covers SEE/SEFA calculations, precursor data validation, monitoring‑plan assessment, site‑visit rules, misstatement handling and conditions for using actual electricity emission factors. Verifiers must register in the CBAM registry within two months of accreditation, with verified emissions forming the basis of importer declarations from 2027. ➡️Read more

EU Adds C9–C21 Long-Chain Perfluorocarboxylic Acids (PFCAs) to POPs Regulation Controls

The European Commission has amended the POPs Regulation to list C9–C21 PFCAs, their salts and related compounds in Annex I, banning their manufacture, placing on the market and use from December 16, 2026. The measure includes strict UTC thresholds, transitional limits for fluoroplastics, PTFE micropowders and firefighting foams, and time‑bound exemptions for semiconductor spare parts and articles already in use. Companies handling fluorinated materials should immediately assess supply chains and ensure impurities remain within exempted limits. ➡️Read more

GHS & SDS Compliance in Practice: Frequently Asked Questions for Industry

SDS management is a core compliance system, not a transactional document exchange. As the article notes, “many companies treat a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) as a piece of ‘supporting paperwork’,” yet true compliance requires accurate hazard classification, localized SDS authoring, precise ingredient disclosure, transport‑ready Section 14 data, and jurisdiction‑specific regulatory information. Global GHS variations, supply‑chain expectations and digitalized labeling make systematic SDS governance essential for risk control and audit readiness.➡️Read more

South Korea's NICS Adds 78 Existing Chemical Substances to Hazard Review Results, 43 Determined as Hazardous

South Korea’s NICS has issued Notice No. 2026‑15, expanding hazard review results under K‑REACH with 78 newly assessed existing substances, revisions to 12 substances, and a new attached table of hazard assessment results. Forty‑three substances are now classified as human acute, chronic or ecological hazards, including lithium, morpholine and triethylaluminium. As the notice states, “chemical substances determined to be hazardous must complete classification and labeling in accordance with the GHS,” and may trigger permit obligations under the Chemical Control Act.➡️Read more

U.S. EPA Seeks Public Comments on Draft TSCA Risk Assessment for 1,2-Dichloropropane

EPA’s draft TSCA risk assessment for 1,2‑dichloropropane finds significant risks for workers across 11 conditions of use, with additional risks for ONUs and consumers from cleaning and polishing products. As noted, “consumers: mainly acute inhalation, plus chronic non‑cancer/cancer inhalation and dermal,” while the general population shows no significant risk. EPA is seeking comments on manufacturing practices, PPE effectiveness, exposure scenarios and product‑use assumptions until November 3, 2026. ➡️Read more

ECHA: 80% of Companies Complete REACH Dossier Updates; Non-compliant Cases Referred to Enforcement Authorities

ECHA reports strong results from its 2026 compliance‑check actions: 80% of joint submissions lacking full data packages and 80% of dossiers missing harmonised CLP classifications have now been corrected. As noted, “dossier updating is an ongoing obligation,” covering changes in tonnage, composition, uses, risks, and CLH updates. Remaining non‑compliant cases have been escalated to Member State enforcement. Companies should review update triggers and deadlines under Implementing Regulation 2020/1435 to avoid regulatory action.➡️Read more

China's GB 15258 Final Draft Removes Safety Information Code, Extends Simplified Labels to 500 mL

MIIT’s final draft of GB 15258 removes the controversial hazardous‑chemical QR‑code requirement and updates label elements, terminology, simplified‑label thresholds (now ≤500 mL), hazard‑statement rules, pictogram sizing and emergency‑number provisions. As noted, “the text of the final draft no longer contains any content related to the ‘safety information code’,” significantly reducing compliance burdens. Enterprises should review changes to label borders, ingredient‑listing rules and kit/combination‑packaging arrangements and prepare for a 12‑month transition period. ➡️Read more

EU Formally Adds Chlorpyrifos to POPs Regulation Controls

Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2026/1423 lists chlorpyrifos in Annex I of the POPs Regulation, implementing the Stockholm Convention’s 2025 decision. With no exemptions granted, all manufacture, placing on the market and use are prohibited from September 30, 2026. As stated, “the concentration limit is set at ≤ 0.01 mg/kg” for unintentional trace contaminants, meaning imported chemicals, mixtures and articles must undergo strict residue checks to avoid market‑access or recall risks. ➡️Read more

Japan Releases 2027 Notification Schedule for New Chemical Substances under CSCL

Japan’s MHLW, METI and MOE have published the 2027 CSCL notification schedule, with 10 acceptance rounds and the first preliminary‑review deadline on October 6, 2026. As noted, “preliminary review documents… close at 15:00 (Japanese time),” and late submissions defer to the next round, affecting judgment‑notice timing and import plans. Companies should prepare physicochemical and toxicological data early, use the same‑substance channel where possible, and monitor the forthcoming 2028 schedule expected in September 2027.➡️Read more

Cosmetic news

South Korea MFDS Launches World's First Global Cosmetic Regulatory Authority Summit (GCORAS)

South Korea’s MFDS has officially established GCORAS, the first global cooperation platform for cosmetics regulatory authority heads, with its inaugural summit held in Seoul from September 7–9. Representatives from 12 countries and major industry associations discussed regulatory convergence across safety assessment, GMP and Halal certification as markets tighten safety, environmental and quality requirements. The initiative marks a move toward multilateral regulatory alignment in emerging regions, and companies should prepare for rising expectations in safety assessment, GMP compliance and Halal certification. ➡️Read more

Summary Report on China Cosmetic Supervision and Sampling Inspection Data – August 2026

China’s August 2026 cosmetic regulatory activity saw 15 non‑compliant batches reported in Shanghai and Guangdong—mainly due to methanol exceedances, UV‑filter mismatches, microbial contamination and banned ingredients—plus six additional cases in Guangxi. Guangzhou cancelled 13 production licences, and Ningxia introduced new non‑punishment rules for minor violations. The results highlight recurring risks in sunscreen, hair‑styling and aloe‑vera products, underscoring the need for stronger raw‑material control, formula review and adherence to CSAR and technical standards.➡️Read more

Exporting Cosmetics to Taiwan, China – A Complete Guide to Product Notification & PIF Compliance Essentials

Since July 2024, Taiwan requires all cosmetics to complete product notification and maintain a full Product Information File, with phased PIF obligations extending to all categories by July 2026. As the document notes, “notification does not equal PIF compliance,” and TFDA inspections cross‑check notification data, labels and PIF contents. Brands must prepare 16 core PIF elements, including stability, microbiology, toxicology, GMP evidence and safety assessment, and ensure consistency across all materials to avoid fines or product removal. ➡️Read more

EU ECGT Applies from September 27, Requirements for Cosmetic Claims Tightened Across the Board

The ECGT Directive enters enforcement on September 27, 2026, adding strict green‑claim prohibitions to the UCPD. As noted, “generic environmental claims… are prohibited across the board,” and offset‑based “carbon neutral” labels relying on purchased credits are banned. Sustainability marks without certified schemes, unsupported future commitments and one‑sided claims are likewise blacklisted. All traders targeting EU consumers — including cross‑border Chinese cosmetics sellers — must review packaging, listings and marketing materials to avoid delisting and penalties.➡️Read more

Indonesia Publishes List of 4 Overseas Halal Conformity Assurance Inspection Bodies

BPJPH has published four approved inspection bodies to execute Indonesia’s new pre‑shipment halal conformity assurance, effective September 9, 2026. As stated, imported cosmetics “must complete conformity verification before shipment… and obtain the LPPH,” which is valid per shipment only. The mechanism overlaps with Indonesia’s October 2026 mandatory halal‑certification phase, requiring integrated planning for certification, labeling, and verification. Exporters should prepare CoA/CoO documents, align HS and batch codes, and schedule inspections early. ➡️Read more

U.S. FDA Removes Aminobenzoic Acid (PABA) and Trolamine Salicylate from the OTC Sunscreen Monograph

FDA’s Final Administrative Order OTC000008‑1 deletes PABA and trolamine salicylate from OTC Monograph M020, concluding both ingredients pose safety risks that outweigh their benefits. As stated, “sunscreen products using these two substances… will no longer qualify for the OTC monograph pathway” after September 11, 2027 and will require an NDA. The order follows years of safety review and public support for removal. Exporters should screen formulations, manage cross‑regional regulatory differences, and prepare for further monograph updates. ➡️Read more

Global Cosmetics Regulatory Updates – Vol. 42 (August 2026)

August 2026 brought significant global cosmetics regulatory updates. China issued new testing methods, added four ingredients to IECIC II, published adverse‑reaction reporting guidance, and released major standards including GB 7916‑2026. Europe saw UK SAG‑CS safety opinions and the EU PPWR’s formal application. Across Asia, South Korea advanced labeling, PPWR documentation and in‑vitro SPF testing, while Indonesia introduced mandatory non‑halal labels and new halal‑system guidelines. As noted, “almost all products exported to the EU are affected” under PPWR. ➡️Read more

Food and food contact material (FCM) news

EFSA Delivered Safety Opinions on S-Acetyl Glutathione (SAG) as a Novel Food

EFSA’s NDA Panel has evaluated S‑acetyl glutathione (SAG) as a novel food, confirming its safety at 300 mg/day for adults and establishing age‑specific safe intakes for adolescents based on benchmark dose modelling. The chemically synthesized tripeptide (>97% SAG) raised no concerns regarding production or specifications, and perchlorate exposure remains below the TDI. Human data on glutathione further support safety. Applicants should note that all novel food submissions must follow EFSA’s updated post‑2025 requirements.➡️Read more

FDA Accepts Three Food Color Additive Petitions: Safflower Extract, Gardenia Blue, and Acetone

The U.S. FDA has accepted three food‑color additive petitions—safflower extract, expanded uses and tighter arsenic limits for gardenia (genipin) blue, and acetone as a processing solvent for carrot oil. All petitions are under technical review, and current 21 CFR Part 73 provisions remain unchanged. Companies should avoid adopting proposed uses before final approval, strengthen impurity control for gardenia blue, and submit comments on the acetone petition’s environmental assessment by September 18, 2026.➡️Read more

Available Now! CIRS Released the White Paper Series - Guide to U.S. Animal Food Ingredient Regulatory Submissions

The U.S. applies four separate regulatory pathways for animal‑food ingredients — FAP, GRAS, AFIC and SRIS — creating a complex, high‑stakes compliance landscape. As the document notes, “the FDA’s regulatory framework for animal feed is complex, multi‑layered, and constantly shifting,” and choosing the wrong route can waste time and resources. CIRS’ new guide provides mechanism‑level analysis, side‑by‑side comparisons and workflow breakdowns to help companies match ingredients with the most cost‑effective submission strategy.➡️Read more

Navigating Food and Feed Ingredients Compliance in 12 Global Markets: The White Paper Series on Novel Food & Feed Ingredients Submissions

CIRS has launched a global White Paper Series to help companies navigate complex regulatory pathways for novel food and feed ingredients across 12 major markets. The series provides clear, practical guidance for multi‑market submissions and international expansion. ➡️Read more

Global First! Shandong Weiyan’s β-carotene Secured FDA GRAS Notification and No Questions Letter

Under CIRS Group’s regulatory support, Shandong Weiyan’s synthetic‑biology β‑carotene secured FDA GRAS Notice No. 1328 and a “No Questions Letter,” confirming its safety for broad U.S. food‑market use. As noted, this makes the company “the first… to achieve official FDA recognition for β‑carotene produced via synthetic biology technology.” The evaluation highlights robust safety data, advanced fermentation processes and strong quality control, strengthening global competitiveness and enabling expanded applications across food, feed, supplements and cosmetics. ➡️Read more

Weekly Summary – Updates on the Approval and Review of “Three New Foods”

The NHC has released new updates on “Three New Foods,” issuing ten extension notices—covering additives like 3‑Fucosyllactose, β‑carotene, GOS and LNT—and four food‑related materials requiring supplementary data. As stated, “CFSA recommends not granting approval” for six submissions, including Dendrobium devonianum raw materials, lactase and osmanthus ear glycolipid. Companies should reassess pipelines, prepare additional technical dossiers and monitor CFSA review trends to avoid delays in market entry.➡️Read more

China's NHC Updates on the Three New Foods Application

China’s NHC has issued new acceptance notices for “Three New Foods,” covering two raw materials—L‑ergothioneine and PQQ disodium salt—and seven additives including β‑carotene, L‑ascorbic acid 2‑glucoside, D‑psicose 3‑epimerase and white mineral oil. As noted, “the applications… have been received,” signalling the start of CFSA technical review. Enterprises should evaluate regulatory pathways, prepare safety data and monitor review progress to avoid delays in market entry.➡️Read more