The ECHA has added 3 substances to the Candidate List of Substances of Very High Concern (SVHCs). The list now includes 250 entries — and that number is growing. Some entries represent entire groups of chemicals, so the actual number of affected substances is even higher.
These substances could soon be added to the Authorisation List, which means companies will no longer be allowed to use them unless they apply for and receive specific authorisation from the European Commission.
What Happens If a Substance Is on the Candidate List?
Under the REACH Regulation, inclusion on the Candidate List comes with serious legal obligations
You must inform your customers and consumers.
If your product (article, mixture, or substance) contains an SVHC above 0.1% w/w, you must tell users how to handle it safely.
Example: If a plastic toy contains a flame retardant listed as an SVHC, the supplier must disclose it.
Consumers have the right to know.
Anyone can ask whether a product contains SVHCs — and suppliers must respond within 45 days.
You must notify ECHA.
If your product contains a newly listed SVHC, you have six months from the date of inclusion to notify the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA).
Example: A clothing importer whose fabric includes a dye now listed as an SVHC must notify ECHA by 25 June 2025.
You must update your Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
If you supply SVHCs on their own or in mixtures, make sure your SDS is up to date.
You must comply with waste regulations.
If your articles contain SVHCs above 0.1% w/w, you must also submit a notification to the SCIP database under the Waste Framework Directive.
No EU Ecolabel.
Products containing SVHCs cannot receive the EU Ecolabel certification.
Want to see the full list of affected substances and upcoming deadlines?
Find the complete, regularly updated Candidate List here:
Source: ECHA.