The Podcast: India’s data platform, China QR codes, EU PFAS restrictions
Part of our Global Outlook series, the third and final podcast explored chemicals management, new technologies, and further product regulations in India and China, plus views on the latest in the EU.
5 key takeaways on chemicals regulations in Asia and the EU
Part of our Global Outlook series, the third and final podcast explored chemicals management, new technologies, and further product regulations in India and China, plus views on the latest in the EU.
What you need to know:
1. India’s new platform for data
In October 2023, India rolled out a new platform, designed to collect and compile chemical data with the aim of providing a comprehensive list of substances.
The focus of the new platform is on improving the accuracy and efficiency of managing and interpreting data, both nationally and regionally. The platform is expected to save companies the cost and administrative burden of collecting and storing data. India expects approximately 50,000 businesses to submit data monthly.
Currently, the platform is only for collecting data on commercial chemicals. Data on research and development chemicals, or distributing chemicals, is exempt.
2. India’s QCOs
Quality Control Orders (QCOs) are substances deemed a risk to the environment or human health. In 2024, India confirmed new QCOs for 10 polyethylene substances, effective from 4 January 2024, and five polymer products, effective from 3 June 2024.
This means manufacturers will now need to obtain a license from the Indian bureau to work with those potentially hazardous substances.
2. QR codes in China
Currently operating as a pilot project in Shanghai and Guangzhou, China is experimenting with the use of QR codes for labeling hazardous substances.
Through an online app, manufacturers and importers of hazardous chemicals will be required to register the chemicals with the National Registration Center of Chemicals. A QR code will then be automatically generated, which the suppliers will need to print out and affix to the packaging.
The QR code will contain important data, such as the chemical identity, safety information, and emergency handling information.
If successful, this could be followed by a national rollout in 2025.
4. PFAS in the EU
ECHA has missed the procedural deadline for submitting the proposed universal PFAS restrictions. Initially set for 22 December 2023, there was an industry expectation that this might not be met, due to the controversy surrounding the PFAS restrictions.
Noted as one of the biggest proposals, in terms of the sheer quantity of substances it covers, the consultation alone garnered around 6,000 comments.
ECHA is expected to give an update.
5. CLP revision
Last year, the European Commission adopted changes to the CLP to bring in new hazard classes, for many substances, notably those that were endocrine disrupting. These classes apply from 1 May 2025.
An update is expected by the middle of 2024.
Listen to the full podcast now
Missed the previous episodes?
Catch up on the latest insights across the globe, with new regulations and legislation being implemented daily. You can find all three podcasts, audio companions to our Global Outlook series, here.