The Commission is gathering feedback on the adoption of a basic regulation for the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA).

The initiative aims to adapt ECHA’s mandate and structure to its future role.

To this end, the Commission intends to simplify the rules under which the Agency operates.

This initiative also covers the tasks performed by ECHA under agreements with the Commission.

According to the Commission, the initiative should also clarify how the Agency works with other bodies involved in chemical safety assessments, including the European Food Safety Authority and the European Medicines Agency.

ECHA’s tasks and the way it operates are set out in the REACH Regulation. Since 2008, ECHA has been entrusted with additional technical, scientific, and administrative tasks stemming from other legislation and agreements concluded with the Commission.

The Commission notes that these additional tasks have increased the existing complexity.

It considers that, without introducing structural changes and clarifying the role and functioning of ECHA and its governing bodies, this situation is likely to worsen, leading to inefficiencies.

In future, ECHA’s Risk Assessment Committee will be expected to issue scientific opinions on chemical substances.

A sustainable financial framework should also be established for ECHA, with fewer administrative burdens and greater flexibility. ECHA’s revenue from fees and charges, combined with an EU contribution to balance its budget, should become more stable and cover all of the Agency’s operations.

From the Commission’s perspective, the initiative aims to make ECHA’s work more effective, efficient, and coherent through a clearer legal framework.

The consultation period for submitting comments is open until 2 December 2025.

Our team is at your disposal for further information.