The United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and Yemen have jointly submitted a notification to the World Trade Organization (WTO) Committee on Technical Barriers to Trade, proposing to implement a unified chemical classification and labeling system within the framework of Gulf Standardization Organization (GSO) member states (excluding Saudi Arabia). The public consultation period for this regulation ended on February 15, 2026, while the specific adoption and effective dates remain to be determined. A summary of the system is provided below.
1. Scope of Application
Applies to all substances and mixtures supplied, used, and/or manufactured within GSO member states (excluding Saudi Arabia).
2. Exemptions
- Radioactive substances and mixtures
- Non-isolated intermediates
- Substances and mixtures used for scientific research and development
- Consumer products including pharmaceuticals, veterinary medicines, cosmetics, detergents, and air fresheners
- Food products that may contain pesticide residues
3. Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Requirements
- Mandatory: SDS required for all hazardous chemicals
- Language: English (Arabic versions must be consistent if provided)
- Format: 16 fixed sections (from "Identification" to "Other Information")
- Updates: Immediate updates when significant new information becomes available; review required at least every 3 years
- Compiler: Must be prepared by qualified personnel
4. Labeling Requirements
- Language: Arabic and English (bilingual labeling permitted)
- Core Elements:
- Supplier information
- Product identifiers (CAS numbers, etc.)
- Hazard pictograms (black symbols, white background, red border)
- Signal words ("Danger" or "Warning")
- Hazard statements
- Precautionary statements (maximum 6, more allowed in special circumstances)
5. Hazard Classification
- Physical Hazards (17 categories): Explosives, flammable gases, aerosols, oxidizing gases, gases under pressure, flammable liquids/solids, self-reactive substances, pyrophoric substances, substances which emit flammable gases in contact with water, oxidizing liquids/solids, organic peroxides, corrosive to metals, etc.
- Health Hazards (10 categories): Acute toxicity, skin corrosion/irritation, serious eye damage/eye irritation, respiratory/skin sensitization, germ cell mutagenicity, carcinogenicity, reproductive toxicity, specific target organ toxicity (single/repeated exposure), aspiration hazard
- Environmental Hazards (2 categories): Hazards to the aquatic environment (acute/chronic), hazards to the ozone layer
6. Classification Methods
- Substances: Self-classification or harmonized classification (using EU CLP Regulation inventory)
- Mixtures: Mandatory self-classification based on overall data or component calculation
7. Special Provisions
- Small packaging: Simplified labeling or QR codes permitted for packages ≤125ml
- Confidential business information: Protection may be applied for through the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) competent authorities
This regulation is developed based on the UN GHS Revision 10 (2023) and adopts the EU CLP Regulation (EC 1272/2008) as an implementation reference. CIRS Group will continue to closely monitor the subsequent implementation progress of this regulation to assist enterprises in achieving compliance.
