The global chemical regulatory landscape is continuously evolving, driven by emerging sustainability initiatives, stricter compliance requirements, and technological advancements. As 2025 approaches, regulatory frameworks are expected to undergo significant transformations to align with environmental and health priorities. Here are some of the key trends to watch for in global chemical regulations in the coming year.

1. Strengthening of Chemical Safety and Sustainability Regulations

Sustainability remains at the forefront of chemical regulation. Governments and international bodies are tightening restrictions on hazardous substances and promoting green chemistry initiatives. The push towards circular economy principles is also influencing regulatory frameworks, with more emphasis on recyclability, waste reduction, and sustainable sourcing of raw materials.

Expected Developments:

• EU Green Deal & Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability (CSS): New restrictions on substances of concern under REACH, stricter authorization requirements, and potential introduction of essential use concepts.
• US TSCA Updates: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will continue prioritizing risk evaluations of existing chemicals and refining reporting obligations under TSCA.
• Asia-Pacific Regulations: China and South Korea are expected to introduce more stringent requirements under MEE Order No. 12 and K-REACH, respectively, increasing compliance obligations for chemical manufacturers and importers. 
• Chemical Regulatory Compliance Courses: With increasing regulations, more professionals are enrolling in compliance courses to stay updated on evolving chemical laws and industry requirements.;
• GPSR: Starting December 13, 2024, new regulations cover all consumer products, requiring manufacturers, importers, and distributors to ensure product safety, implement recall and compensation rules, and enforce strict market surveillance.

2. Expansion of Global Chemical regulations and GHS Implementation

The Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) is being adopted and revised by more countries, with additional updates expected in 2025. This standardization ensures a harmonized approach to hazard communication across global supply chains.

Expected Developments:

• GHS Revision 10: Potential updates to classification criteria, including new hazard classes for endocrine disruptors.
• Latin America GHS Advancements: Countries like Peru, Argentina, and Colombia are expected to finalize or update their GHS adoption.
• Middle East & Africa Integration: Emerging markets in these regions are gradually aligning their hazard communication requirements with international standards.
• Chemical Regulatory Compliance Courses: More courses will be available to help businesses and professionals understand and implement GHS revisions effectively.
• Ukraine chemical regulations: Ukraine has updated its chemical regulations to align with European Union standards. The UA-CLP Regulation, enacted in November 2024, harmonizes Ukraine's classification and labeling of chemicals with the EU's CLP Regulation. The UA-REACH Regulation, enacted in January 2025, mandates the registration of chemical substances in Ukraine in quantities exceeding one ton per year. A pre-registration phase is available from January 2025 to 2026.

3. Regulatory Update on PFAS and Other Persistent Chemicals

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are under heightened regulatory scrutiny worldwide due to their persistence in the environment and potential health risks. Authorities are moving towards phase-outs, bans, and stricter reporting requirements for these substances.

Expected Developments:

• EU-wide PFAS Restrictions: The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) is expected to advance broad PFAS restrictions under REACH, significantly impacting industries that rely on these substances.
• US EPA Regulations: The U.S. is likely to expand its PFAS reporting rules under TSCA and implement new drinking water standards.
• Asia-Pacific Restrictions: Japan and South Korea are considering additional PFAS regulations to align with global initiatives.
• Industry Impact: Industries reliant on PFAS and other persistent chemicals face challenges due to increasing bans and regulations, particularly in consumer products, textiles, and electronics, requiring them to find alternatives and adapt to new compliance standards.
• Chemical Regulatory Compliance Courses: Courses focusing on PFAS management and compliance are likely to be in high demand among regulatory professionals.

4. Digitalization of Compliance and Regulatory Reporting

Digital transformation is reshaping how companies manage regulatory compliance. Automated regulatory databases, AI-driven compliance tools, and blockchain-based tracking systems are being integrated into chemical management strategies.

Expected Developments:

• EU SCIP Database Expansion: More stringent data-sharing requirements under the Waste Framework Directive.
• Digital Compliance Tools in the US: The EPA and other agencies are leveraging digital platforms to streamline chemical data submissions and tracking.
• Global Adoption of Compliance AI: Increased use of artificial intelligence for monitoring regulatory updates and managing compliance workflows.
• Chemical Regulatory Compliance Courses: Growing interest in digital compliance training for professionals navigating AI-driven regulatory tools.

5. Trade and Supply Chain Regulations Affecting Chemical Imports & Exports

Geopolitical shifts and new trade agreements will influence global chemical trade regulations in 2025. Regulatory barriers, supply chain due diligence, and sustainable sourcing requirements are becoming critical compliance areas.

Expected Developments:

• EU’s CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism): The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) will enter its next phase, requiring importers of carbon-intensive goods into the EU to submit detailed reports based on EU-mandated methods, and potentially face penalties for non-compliance. This will likely lead to changes in global trade and supply chains, with businesses needing to adapt to new regulations and costs.
• US-China Trade Relations: Potential new restrictions on chemical trade due to geopolitical tensions.
• Global Due Diligence Regulations: Expansion of supply chain due diligence laws requiring companies to assess environmental and human rights risks in their supply chains.
• Chemical Regulatory Compliance Courses: Due diligence training will be essential for professionals managing regulatory compliance in international trade.
• European Union's Deforestation Regulation (EUDR): The EUDR aims to prevent products linked to deforestation from entering the EU market. It covers commodities such as soy, beef, palm oil, wood, cocoa, coffee, rubber, leather, furniture, and paper. Companies are required to conduct due diligence, provide geolocation data for sourcing, and adhere to a risk-based benchmarking system. The European Commission postponed the EUDR compliance deadlines by 12 months, with large companies now required to comply by December 30, 2025, and SMEs by June 30, 2026. This extension allows businesses more time to adapt their supply chains and meet regulatory requirements.

Conclusion

The evolving landscape of chemical regulations is set to bring stricter sustainability mandates, advanced digital compliance tools, and shifting trade policies. To stay competitive, companies must proactively monitor regulatory changes, invest in compliance technologies, and embrace sustainable chemical management practices.

Keeping pace with these developments will not only ensure compliance but also drive innovation, strengthen corporate responsibility, and enhance long-term business resilience. For professionals looking to stay ahead, enrolling in chemical regulatory compliance courses will be essential to navigating this dynamic regulatory environment. For professionals seeking to enhance their expertise, chemical regulatory compliance courses will be crucial in keeping up with the dynamic regulatory landscape.