In recent years, Peru has intensified its efforts around the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) and its management of chemicals. On July 26, 2024, the Peruvian Ministry of the Environment announced the publication of the draft Supreme Decree to approve Legislative Decree 1570, which establishes the Comprehensive Chemical Management Law and sets the framework for the implementation of the GHS. This is a significant development in the country’s chemical safety regulation.

Initially, a 10-day public consultation period was provided for stakeholders to submit their opinions and suggestions, which was subsequently extended until October 24, 2024. The Ministry is currently reviewing the feedback, and the final version is expected to be published in early 2025. 

A core element of the Decree is the creation of the National Registry of Chemical Substances (RENASQ), which will integrate and systematize information on hazardous chemicals manufactured or imported into the country. The Decree also aligns with the sixth revised edition of the Globally Harmonized System, ensuring a standardized approach to the classification, labeling and communication of hazardous chemical substances.

Key News 2024

• Peru Proposes New Standards for Recyclable Plastic Tableware
  Peru's draft regulation on recyclable plastic tableware aims to reduce environmental impact by promoting sustainable production and distribution practices. Key measures include the use of mono-materials to improve recyclability, bans on oxo-degradable plastics and hazardous substances, and mandatory recycled content with traceability. Manufacturers must comply with labeling and certification requirements. Read more here.

• Peru Improves Worker Safety with Updated Chemical Exposure Limits
  In Peru, the Ministry of Health (MINSA) issued Ministerial Resolution No. 733-2024/MINSA on October 25, 2024, revising permissible exposure limits for chemicals in the workplace. These updates reflect advances in health and safety research and aim to improve worker protection from hazardous and carcinogenic substances. Employers will be required to implement stricter controls, provide personal protective equipment (PPE), and ensure continuous monitoring of chemical exposures in the workplace. Read more here.

• Peru Enforces New Hazardous Substances Regulation from June 2024
  Peru’s Supreme Decree No. 031-2023-SA, entered into force on June 1, 2024, six months after its publication in the Official Gazette.  The regulation requires the authorization for disinfectants, pesticides, and industrial chemicals, ensuring safer handling and use. It also introduces the Prior Informed Consent (PIC) procedure to regulate the import and export of certain hazardous substances, thereby strengthening public safety and environmental protection. Companies and stakeholders are advised to familiarize themselves with the new requirements and prepare for compliance. Read more here.

Peru's Draft Technical Regulation on Recyclable Plastic Tableware and Utensils outlines new standards aimed at fostering a circular economy while addressing environmental concerns associated with single-use plastics. This regulation forms part of the implementation of Law No. 30884, and sets strict standards for the production, importation, and distribution of recyclable plastic products, targeting a greener future.

Key Highlights of the Regulation:

1. Material Standards

   • Products must use monomaterials, avoiding combinations that hinder recycling.
   • Prohibited substances include those generating microplastics or containing hazardous materials like lead or cadmium, to a maximum  100 ppm.
   • Ban oxo-degradable plastics that fragment into microplastics. 

2. Recycled Content

   • Manufacturers must incorporate pre-consumer and post-consumer recycled materials
   • Manufacturers must maintain detailed traceability documentation

3. Labeling Obligations

   Labels must include:
   • Disposal instructions urging users to recycle responsibly.
   • Details on recycled material percentages.
   • The term "RECICLABLE."

4. Ban on Single-Use Plastic Items 

   • Prohibits single-use straws, plates, and utensils that contribute to microplastic contamination, unless explicitly exempted.

Compliance Requirements for Manufacturers and Importers

To adhere to the regulation:

• A Certification of Conformity is mandatory, proving compliance with technical and recyclability standards.
• Testing is performed in accordance with international ISO guidelines.
• Products must undergo recyclability evaluation to verify compatibility with local recycling infrastructure.

This regulation is a transformative initiative for Peru, targeting waste reduction while fostering an eco-conscious consumer base and driving industries toward sustainable innovation. By promoting responsible production and consumption practices, it marks a crucial step in Peru's journey toward a greener, more sustainable future, aligning with global environmental goals and supporting the shift to a circular economy. For additional details, you can find the Draft Regulation (in Spanish) here