SG 120/26
The European Union (EU) has announced plans to update its regulation on the classification, labeling and packaging of substances and mixtures (CLP Regulation).
On August 17, 2026, the World Trade Organization (WTO) announced a draft regulation from the EU, proposing amendments to Annexes I, III-VI and VIII of Regulation (EC) No. 1272/2008 on the classification, labeling and packaging of substances and mixtures (CLP Regulation, current consolidated version to July 1, 2026). This proposal would align the CLP Regulation with revisions 8 to 10 of the United Nations’ Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS revisions 8 to 10). It would also partially implement GHS revision 11 with respect to aerosols and skin-sensitizing mixtures.
What does this draft regulation require?
Key proposed changes include:
- Introducing new classification criteria or procedures, hazard communication elements, decision logic and guidance for chemicals under pressure, as well as updates to better address their explosion hazard when they are not in their transport configuration
- Updating precautionary statements
- Permitting non-animal testing methods for the classification of health hazards relating to certain hazard classes
- Introducing new provisions on in vitro/ex vivo data and non-test methods for assessing skin corrosion and skin irritation
- Aligning the classification strategy, guidance and tools for metals and metal compounds with the provisions for long-term aquatic toxicity classification
- Revising the classification criteria and provisions for skin-sensitizing mixtures
- Updating the classification criteria for substances and mixtures that are hazardous to the atmospheric system and streamlining precautionary statements
Who is impacted?
The proposal would affect stakeholders across multiple industries and supply chains, including manufacturers, importers, retailers and other intermediaries operating in the EU market.
When is the deadline for submitting comments?
According to the WTO notification, comments will be accepted until October 16, 2026.
When does it apply?
The proposed amendments are expected to be adopted in Q4 2026 and would apply 24 months after their entry into force.
At SGS, our safety data sheet services monitor all changes so you can stay ahead of REACH and CLP compliance requirements. With over 15 years of specialized expertise, our experts are supported by dedicated software systems and comprehensive databases, all underpinned by up-to-the-minute market intelligence obtained through European Commission work groups, industrial federations and national authorities. Visit our website or contact us to find out more about how we can help you achieve full compliance on safety data sheets, classification and labeling. In the end, it’s only trusted because it’s tested.
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