Japan Notifies WTO of Revision of the Order for Enforcement of the Act on the Regulation of Manufacture and Evaluation of Chemical Substances

On December 18th, 2025, the World Trade Organisation (WTO) has circulated a notification titled “Japan Notifies WTO of Revision to the Order for Enforcement of the Act on the Regulation of Manufacture and Evaluation of Chemical Substances.” The proposed revision designates chlorpyrifos, chlorinated paraffins with carbon chain lengths C14–17 and chlorination levels of 45 per cent or more, and long-chain perfluoro carboxylic acids (C9–21), their salts and related compounds as Class I Specified Chemical Substances, which will require authorization for manufacture or import under Japan’s chemical control legislation. In addition, the draft measure proposes to prohibit the import of certain products containing these substances, including wood insecticides, plasticizers, flame-retardant additives, lubricating and hydraulic oils, paints, adhesives, sealing fillers, water- and oil-repellent agents, fire extinguishing products, waxes, and treated textiles, clothing, and floor coverings. These measures aim to strengthen controls across a wide range of industrial, professional-use, and consumer-related applications. The objective of the proposed revision is the protection of human health and safety, protection of animal and plant life or health, and the protection of the environment, in line with Japan’s Act on the Regulation of Manufacture and Evaluation of Chemical Substances. The revision is scheduled for adoption in May 2026, with entry into force planned for November 2026. Final date for comments: 16 February 2026.