,The European Chemicals Agencys Forum for Exchange of Information on Enforcement (Forum) has concluded its EU-wide REF-12 enforcement project, aimed at assessing importers compliance with REACH registration, restriction, and authorisation requirements. Conducted in 2024, the project involved 2,603 inspections across 29 countries and strengthened cooperation between national enforcement authorities and customs through the systematic use of import declaration data. Findings revealed significant non-compliance, particularly for registration obligations, with 32% of substances imported in mixtures lacking proper registration, compared to 7% for substances imported alone. Restrictions checks showed a 16% non-compliance rate, mainly involving imported jewellery, toys, and textiles. Authorisation controls were limited, but highlighted issues related to missing or expired authorisations and incorrect TARIC declarations. The project identified key enforcement challenges, including insufficient importer awareness, persistent non-compliance in jewellery, and difficulties with analytical testing. Overall, REF-12 enhanced enforcement effectiveness, protected human health and the environment, promoted fair competition, and provided valuable insights to improve future REACH import controls.
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