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China's proposed overhaul of its new chemical substance registration regime has been notified to the WTO, highlighting the potential trade implications of measures that could tighten regulatory oversight of manufacturers and importers.
The WTO notice reflects a draft revision issued for public consultation in June that would align the regulation with China's Ecological and Environmental Code. Proposed changes include an increase in fines, an adjustment to registration types and the removal of exemptions for pharmaceuticals, pesticides, cosmetics, food and fertilisers, all of which could affect international trade.
The notification states that the deadline for international feedback is 30 August, while the proposed approval and enforcement dates have not been specified.
Industry initially expected the final regulation to be issued before 15 August, the date on which the Ecological and Environmental Code will come into force. However, a source speaking to Chemical Watch News & Insight said that "due to the time needed for WTO procedure and longer consultation window, it is highly likely that the issue of final regulation will be delayed".