Forum-52- Strengthening EU Chemical Enforcement and Collaboration on REACH, CLP, and PIC Enforcement

The Forum-52 meeting (10–12 March 2026) delivered significant progress in strengthening EU-wide enforcement of chemical regulations under REACH, CLP, PIC, and POPs. The Forum adopted its agenda and revised multiple mandates across ongoing projects, ensuring better alignment and efficiency. A major focus was REF-15, promoting collaboration between REACH and occupational safety inspectors, with Member States required to appoint national coordinators and begin preparations. The PIC pilot project scope and timeline were refined, alongside updates to several working groups and enforcement initiatives. The Forum highlighted scientific and technical cooperation, particularly through the PARCS project on PFAS testing, encouraging laboratory participation and interlaboratory studies. Members were also invited to address regulatory uncertainties, including Annex XVII restrictions on inorganic ammonium salts, and contribute to microplastics reporting. Completed initiatives, such as Training for Trainers 2025 and REF-12, were formally closed, providing recommendations for future capacity-building. Updates from ECHA and the European Commission addressed organisational changes, enforcement funding, and digital compliance. Overall, the meeting reinforced harmonised enforcement, stakeholder collaboration, and forward-looking regulatory strategies.