On May 19, 2026, the Cabinet of Japan approved a Cabinet Order partially amending the Enforcement Order of the Act on the Examination and Regulation of Manufacturing of Chemical Substances (Chemical Substances Control Law). The amendment designates long-chain perfluorocarboxylic acids (LC-PFCAs) and their salts, LC-PFCA-related substances, chlorpyrifos, and medium-chain chlorinated paraffins (MCCPs) as Class I Specified Chemical Substances, reflecting decisions adopted under the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs). Under the amended order, these substances will be subject to Japan’s strictest chemical control measures due to their persistence, bioaccumulation potential, and long-term toxicity. The designation imposes restrictions on the manufacture, import, and use of these substances and establishes import prohibitions for specified products containing them. Products affected include lubricants containing LC-PFCAs, LC-PFCA-related substances, or MCCPs, and wood preservatives containing chlorpyrifos. The amendment also requires certain fire extinguishers, fire-extinguishing agents, and foam extinguishing agents containing LC-PFCAs or related substances to comply with government-established technical standards during a transitional period. The Cabinet Order is scheduled to be promulgated on May 22, 2026, and will enter into force on November 22, 2026. The measure aligns Japan’s domestic chemical management framework with international obligations under the Stockholm Convention and strengthens controls on persistent organic pollutants to protect human health and the environment.
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