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Corporate Update

EU Steps Up Enforcement On Hazardous Substances

• By  Textile Excellence
• July 27, 2026

The European Union is stepping up enforcement on hazardous substances in products, putting greater compliance pressure on global manufacturers.

The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has announced its next EU-wide enforcement project, REF-16, to check whether imported products comply with chemical restrictions under EU legislation, including limits on hazardous substances.

The move is highly significant for the textile and apparel industry, where chemicals used in dyes, finishes, coatings and processing treatments must meet strict EU requirements under the REACH Regulation.

EU inspectors will also expand checks to online marketplaces, meaning digital sales channels will not escape scrutiny. Non-compliant products could face removal from the market, shipment delays, penalties and reputational damage.

Although inspections are planned for 2028, exporters need to act now by strengthening chemical testing, supplier controls and compliance documentation.

For textile manufacturers targeting Europe, chemical compliance is fast becoming a licence to do business.

EU inspectors will also expand checks to online marketplaces, meaning digital sales channels will not escape scrutiny. Non-compliant products could face removal from the market, shipment delays, penalties and reputational damage. Although inspections are planned for 2028, exporters need to act now by strengthening chemical testing, supplier controls and compliance documentation. For textile manufacturers targeting Europe, chemical compliance is fast becoming a licence to do business.