The global chemical regulatory landscape continues to evolve. Staying informed about these developments is critical to maintain a competitive edge and ensure safety throughout the supply chain.

  In the Asia-Pacific region, China has accelerated the legislative process for the Law on Hazardous Chemicals Safety, while South Korea updated key regulations under K-REACH, including a revised tonnage threshold for new chemical registration (now 1 t/y) and new criteria for designating toxic chemicals. Thailand’s six departments conducted a joint review of the enforcement efficiency of the Hazardous Substances Act B.E. 2535 (1992), and India introduced mandatory data reporting through the ChemIndia Portal. Vietnam finalized the draft of its Law on Chemicals, and other countries in the region, such as Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, New Zealand, and the Philippines, implemented regulatory updates to bolster chemical safety and compliance.
 
In Europe, significant changes include the addition of seven substances to the list of Substances of Very High Concern and the inclusion of PFHxA, its salts, and related substances in the Restriction List. Ukraine has adopted its own REACH-like legislation, set to take effect in January 2025. Meanwhile, the UK has extended registration deadlines under UK REACH to 2026, 2028, and 2030, depending on tonnage bands and hazard classifications.

In North and South America, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has finalized PFAS data reporting rules under TSCA, marking a significant step toward managing these substances. Brazil has also introduced its own REACH-like framework for comprehensive chemical management.

As these regulatory frameworks evolve, they underscore a global push toward enhanced chemical safety, sustainability, and compliance. Companies operating across multiple jurisdictions must adapt their strategies to align with these changes, ensuring both market access and adherence to rigorous safety standards. ICTA informs its members of upcoming regulatory changes and facilitates discussions amongst chemical distribution companies about the impact of the changes on their industry.