Japan Notifies WTO of Strict Measures Against PFHxS and its Derivatives

In a significant move aimed at curbing environmental pollution, Japan has officially notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) of its intention to designate Perfluorohexane Sulfonate (PFHxS), its isomers, or salts as Class I Specified Chemical Substances on 1 September 2023. These substances will require special authorization for their manufacturing or importation within the country.

The decision, based on Article 24 of the Act on the Evaluation of Chemical Substances and Regulation of Their Manufacture, etc., will also entail a ban on several products if they incorporate PFHxS, its isomers, or their salts. The proposed date for adopting these measures is set for November 2023, with the entry into force scheduled for January 2024 for chemical substances and May 2024 for the products affected.

The following products will be prohibited from being imported when containing PFHxS, its isomers, or salts:

1. Water-repellent textiles and oil-repellent textiles.

2. Etching agents used for metal processing.

3. Etchants used in the manufacture of semiconductors.

4. Surface treatment agents for plating or related additives.

5. Antireflection agents used in semiconductor manufacturing.

6. Resists for semiconductors.

7. Water repellent, oil repellent, and fabric protection agents.

8. Fire extinguishers, fire-extinguishing agents, and fire-extinguishing foam.

9. Water-repellent clothes and oil-repellent clothes.

10. Water-repellent floor coverings and oil-repellent floor coverings.

The move is driven by concerns over the environmental impact of PFHxS, its isomers, and their salts, which are known for their non-biodegradability, high potential for bioaccumulation, and chronic toxicity. The decision aligns with resolutions made during the 10th Conference of the Parties to the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants in 2022, emphasizing the need for international action against hazardous substances.

The public and stakeholders are invited to provide comments on these proposed measures within 60 days from the date of notification.