On September 9, 2024, Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare, alongside the Ministries of Economy, Trade and Industry and the Environment draft proposal that aims at banning 138 Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS). The proposal classifies 138 PFAS compounds as Class I Specified Chemical Substances and aims at complete prohibition on their manufacture, import, and use. This new law is anticipated to be formally adopted in November 2024, with enforcement commencing on January 10, 2025
Japan has added PFAS category perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA)isomers, their salts, and PFOA-related compounds on Class I Specified Substances due to its environmental persistence and potential for widespread contamination. With a few exceptions, many of the provisions in the new cabinet order will apply from January 10, 2025.
Products prohibited from import:
- Antifoaming agent.
- Clothing treated with oil- or water repellent properties.
- Fabrics treated with oil- or water-repellent properties.
- Fire extinguishers, fire extinguishing agents for fire extinguishers, and fire extinguishing foams.
- Floor coverings treated with oil- or water-repellent properties.
- Floor wax.
- Oil-repellent, water-repellent, and antifouling agents and fiber protecting agents.
- Optical fibers or coating agents applied to optical fiber.
By classifying PFAS as a Class I Specified Substance, Japan is implementing strict controls under the Chemical Substances Control Law. Key aspects include:
PFAS production and use will be tightly regulated, with new guidelines to limit its presence in products and processes. Disposal of PFAS-containing materials will follow rigorous procedures to prevent environmental contamination. Companies will face increased monitoring requirements for PFAS levels in emissions usage and waste. New regulations will include initiatives to educate the public about PFAS risks and safer alternatives.
Compliance XL offers consulting services to companies in the field of PFAS compliance and the collection of PFAS declarations. We also assist customers regularly maintain their supplier certificates and declarations to ensure they are up to date as part of their compliance data management strategy.
FAQs
1. What is Class I Specified Chemical Substances?
Class I Specified Chemical Substances are the substances that are persistent and highly bio accumulative and cause long-term toxicity to humans and ecosystems.
2. What is the aim of the Chemical Substances Control Law?
CSCL regulates the manufacture and evaluation of chemical substances in Japan. It aims to ensure the safety of chemical substances and protect human health and the environment.
