On July 31, 2025, the UK Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), in collaboration with the Scottish and Welsh governments, published the 2025–2026 Policy Statement on UK REACH Priorities, defining core tasks for the upcoming year in chemical regulation.
Three Key Priorities for the Year
1. PFAS Firefighting Foam Restriction Proposal
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) will launch a public consultation this fiscal year on restrictions for the use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in firefighting foams.
2. Optimization of High-Risk Substance Authorization
For "Substances of Very High Concern" (SVHCs) requiring strict control, UK REACH will continue implementing a conditional authorization system, focusing on reviewing the feasibility of alternative technologies and economic costs. Since 2021, the UK has processed over 50 authorization applications, most completed ahead of statutory deadlines.
3. Updates to Candidate and Authorization Lists
Relevant authorities will review the Interim Criteria for Candidate List Updates published by the former UK government. Based on the review, decisions will be made on whether to align UK procedures with additions to the EU REACH Candidate List since January 1, 2021. Under legal obligations (at least biennially), HSE will submit proposals this year to add new SVHCs to the Authorization List (Annex 14) based on the Candidate List. When deciding on inclusions, authorities will evaluate substances against criteria under the UK REACH Regulation and consider factors including objectives outlined in the Action Plan for Regulatory Agencies and Policies to Drive Economic Growth. Throughout this process, EU regulatory decisions may be referenced where appropriate.
With the advancement of this plan, the global chemical industry supply chain may face renewed compliance adaptation challenges.
Further Information
