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On 6 August 2025, the UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE) issued a bulletin reminding companies exporting chemicals listed under the GB Prior Informed Consent (PIC) Regulation that they must submit export notifications at least 35 days before the first shipment in 2026. This requirement applies to exports to all countries, including Northern Ireland.

Submission Requirements

Export notifications must be sent to ukdna@hse.gov.uk using the GB PIC export notification form. Each email should cover a single chemical or mixture and include a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) in English and, where available, in the official language of the importing country. Where no SDS is provided, sections 4 and 5 of the notification form must be completed. The intended use should be clearly stated to facilitate processing by the importing authority.

Mixtures with the same classification, labelling, and use can be covered by one notification, provided concentration changes do not affect labelling.

Special RIN Applications

For exports intended solely for research or analysis, and for quantities up to 10 kg per year per importing country, companies may apply for a Special Reference Identification Number (Special RIN). This also applies when an importing country has waived the notification requirement under the Rotterdam Convention. Requests should be submitted to HSE using the Special RIN form or the bulk RIN option.

Further details and forms are available in the bulletin here. 

On 8 May 2025, the United Kingdom formally notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) of a new regulatory measure titled the Cosmetic Products (Restriction of Chemical Substances) Regulations 2025. This step aims to strengthen consumer protection by revising the permitted levels of benzophenone-3, a common UV-filter used in cosmetic products.

The amendment, which modifies the Cosmetics Regulation (EC No 1223/2009) as it applies in Great Britain, follows expert guidance from the Scientific Advisory Group on Chemical Safety of Non-Food and Non-Medicinal Consumer Products (SAG-CS). The group advises the UK Government independently on chemical risks in consumer goods, with a strong emphasis on safeguarding public health.

Implementation Timeline

Effective Date: 21 January 2026

Transitional Period: Products containing benzophenone-3 already on the market before this date may remain available until 21 July 2026

This move aligns with the UK’s commitment to ensure that only safe cosmetic products are accessible to consumers, reflecting evolving scientific risk assessments and reinforcing public trust in regulatory vigilance.