The deadline for the Committee for Socio-Economic Analysis (SEAC) to adopt its final opinion on the universal PFAS restriction proposal has been extended by 90 days under Article 71(3) of REACH. The draft final opinion will now be tabled for adoption at SEAC-73. This extension affects the timeline for the EU-wide PFAS restriction process, with SEAC now expected to adopt its final opinion by the end of 2026.
The Universal PFAS restriction proposal includes annual reporting requirements for companies benefiting from derogations, including manufacturers, importers, and formulators of PFAS. Reports must detail the identity and quantities of PFAS used. Additionally, for fluoropolymers and perfluoropolyethers, site-specific management plans must be prepared covering use conditions, disposal, and justification for continued use.
On March 26, 2026, ECHA's Risk Assessment Committee (RAC) and Socio-Economic Analysis Committee (SEAC) finalized their scientific assessment of the Universal PFAS restriction proposal. The committees support restricting over 10,000 PFAS substances with targeted derogations for critical applications where alternatives are not yet available. The Commission will now prepare its formal restriction proposal based on ECHA's opinions.