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On February 11, 2026, the European Union officially published new regulations regarding detergents and surfactants (EU) 2026/405, aimed at fully replacing the previous regulations (EC) No 648/2004, which have been in effect for nearly twenty years. The new regulations establish minimum requirements for the biodegradability of surfactants, impose restrictions on the content of phosphates and other phosphate compounds in household laundry detergents and household automatic dishwasher detergents, and introduce the Digital Product Passport (DPP) along with new labeling rules, including provisions related to allergenic fragrances. Companies exporting detergents or surfactants to the EU will need to comply with these regulations.

In light of increasing concerns over carcinogenic risks, the European Union is considering banning the use of ethanol as an active ingredient in hand sanitizers and other disinfectant products, triggering significant controversy. On October 10, a working group under the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) issued an internal recommendation classifying ethanol as a hazardous substance that may increase the risk of cancer and suggested it should be replaced in cleaning and other disinfectant products.