News Details

On 21 January 2026, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) launched a call for comments and evidence to support the preparation of a REACH restriction proposal on certain non-polymeric aromatic brominated flame retardants (ABFRs). Stakeholders are invited to submit their contributions by 18 March 2026.

Planned REACH restriction on non-polymeric ABFRs

The call is part of ECHA’s preparatory work on an Annex XV restriction dossier, following a mandate from the European Commission issued on 11 November 2025. The initiative builds on the investigation report published by ECHA in December 2024, which concluded that many non-polymeric additive ABFRs are of concern due to their persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic (PBT) or very persistent and very bioaccumulative (vPvB) properties, as well as their release into the environment in relevant quantities.

According to ECHA, the main sources of environmental emissions identified include electrical and electronic equipment (EEE), building and construction products, and textiles, with releases at the waste stage being a significant contributor.

Substances in scope

The restriction dossier will cover three substances identified as substances of very high concern (SVHCs) based on their vPvB properties, together with substances and reaction masses containing these SVHCs at concentrations of 0.1% (w/w) or higher, as listed in the following table.

In addition, ECHA has identified 19 further non-polymeric ABFRs for interim assessment of their PBT or vPvB properties. These substances are also covered by the call for evidence, reflecting the possibility that the scope of the restriction mandate may be expanded. The full list can be found here.

Restriction scope and options

The restriction is expected to apply to electrical and electronic equipment, construction products, and textiles, as defined under the relevant EU legislation. EEE exempted from the scope of Directive 2011/65/EU is excluded from the mandate.

ECHA is currently assessing three possible approaches:

• Restriction of the three SVHCs identified in the mandate and related substances containing them.
• Restriction of a broader group of 24 non-polymeric ABFRs (the mandated substances plus those under interim assessment).
• A dynamic approach could be taken, whereby additional non-polymeric ABFRs could be brought into scope if they are classified as PBT or vPvB under the CLP Regulation in the future.

ECHA notes that the final restriction proposal may rely on group-based definitions rather than a closed list of substances.

Input requested and timeline

ECHA is seeking information on compliance costs, the availability and feasibility of alternatives, and wider socio-economic impacts, including effects on trade, employment and supply chains. Submissions should be supported by appropriate evidence.

The call for comments and evidence runs from 21 January to 18 March 2026 (closing at 23:59 Helsinki time) and does not replace the formal public consultation that will follow once a restriction proposal has been submitted.

Contributions should be submitted via ECHA’s online EU Survey here.