Transitory period extension for HUHS products issued by the Philippines FDA

On 21 January 2022, the Philippine Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued Circular No. 2021-011-A which allows the extension of the transition period of HUHS products (Household/Urban Hazardous Substances). The FDA Circular No. 2021-011-A replaces and repeals Circular No. 2020-025. The new Circular specifically extends the transitory period by a further two years from the initial due date of 31 December 2021 for the products in Categories III and IV. This indicates that until 31 December 2023, the registration and labeling requirements of the FDA Circular No. 2020-025 will not apply to such items.

In the Philippines, there are five categories into which HUHS products are categorized. The circular applies to products in categories III and IV, which include deodorizers, fresheners, and cleaners respectively.

Only the Certificate of Product Registration (CPR) is impacted by the extension; the License to Operate (LTO) is unchanged. Until 31 December 2023 goods containing HUHSs that are currently on the market but have not been registered may continue to be sold.  However, an LTO is a requirement for all companies participating in or planning to participate in HUHS operations. A copy of the circular and an LTO may be used in place of a CPR for any customs-related activities, including advertising and sales promotions, according to the FDA, The following products come under categories III and IV.

• • Category   III (Cleaners, Air Fresheners and Deodorizers)
• Bleaches
• Cleaners (i.e., corrosive, multi-purpose, surface, etc.)
• Deodorizers
• Dishwashing and laundry detergents/soaps
• Disinfectants (for surfaces)
• Fabric conditioners/softeners and ironing aids
• Air fresheners (i.e., room, car, etc.), aromatics, diffusers
• Moisture-absorbing agents (i.e., desiccants)
• Polishes
• Pool chemicals
• • Category IV (Do-It-Yourself and Hobby Items)
• Adhesives, glues, and sealants
• Care and repair products for automobiles, furniture, and jewellery
• Button batteries
• Colouring materials
• Fabric dyes, tattoo dyes
• Paints, varnishes, and thinners
• Paint stripper
• Rust remover/degreasers