Japan: MHLW updates list of substances subject to labelling and SDS delivery requirements under ISHA

Update: On 6 June 2025, Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare (MHLW) published the revised list of 155 chemicals which require labelling and safety data sheets (SDS) on the ASEAN-Japan Chemical Safety Database portal. The updated list was also  made available on the nation's National Institute of Technology and Evaluation-Chemical Risk Information Platform (NITE-CHRIP) website.  Enforcement will begin on 1 April 2027. 

Original Text: 

On 16 May 2025, Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare (MHLW) published the revised list of compounds and mixtures that required labelling and safety data sheets (SDS). The list is available on the country’s Workplace Safety Portal, managed by the Ministry. According to the Industrial Safety and Health Act (ISHA), the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) for labelling must be followed.  

List of Labelling & SDS Delivery 

According to Article 57 and 57-2 of the ISHA, it is mandatory to provide a label and SDS for the listed chemicals to safeguard workers’ health and the environment. A total of 2316 chemicals are now listed, with requirements coming into effect in phases from April 2025 and April 2026. 

Previous Update in March 2025 

In March 2025, the MHLW released a list of 7 chemicals subject to labelling and SDS delivery. 

Insights from the Amended List 

From the revised list, the following must have label and SDSs: 

• 1530 chemicals applicable from 1 April 2025 

• 779 chemicals applicable from 1 April 2026 

Obligations for Stakeholders 

Manufacturers, importers, suppliers, and employers are subject to labelling and Safety Data Sheet (SDS) delivery obligations under Japan's Industrial Safety and Health Act (ISHA).