Secretariat invitation for comments on draft review of the PFOI→PFOB (pharmaceuticals) specific exemption (deadline 22 May 2026)

The Stockholm Convention Secretariat issued a communication inviting Parties and observers to submit comments on a draft report reviewing the specific exemption for the use of perfluorooctyl iodide (PFOI) to produce perfluorooctyl bromide (PFOB) for pharmaceutical products. The communication sets a comment submission deadline of 22 May 2026. This matters for compliance because outcomes of exemption reviews can change conditions, scope, or continuation/expiry of permitted uses for Annex-listed POPs and may require companies supporting registered uses to adjust sourcing, product formulations, or documentation supporting continued lawful use in Parties relying on the exemption.