ROHS Compliance

On March 2, 2026, the Official Journal of the European Union published the Detergents and Surfactants Regulation (EU) 2026/405. This new regulation will replace Regulation (EC) No 648/2004 effective September 23, 2029. 

Key Highlights 

I. Expanded Scope of Application 

New Product Categories 

  • Detergents containing microorganisms 

  • Fabric care auxiliary products 

  • Odour-modifying products 

New Sales Models 

  • Explicit inclusion of refill sales to support circular economy objectives 

New Sales Channels 

  • Covers distance and online sales, addressing enforcement challenges in cross-border e-commerce 

II. Key New Requirements 

1. Biodegradability Requirements (Phased Implementation) 

  • Before March 23, 2029: Surfactants must continue to meet existing biodegradability standards. 

  • From March 23, 2032: Water-soluble films and polymers within films must comply with biodegradability requirements. 

  • From March 23, 2034: Organic substances present at concentrations ≥10% in detergents must meet biodegradability criteria. 

2. Safety Requirements for Detergents Containing Microorganisms 

  • Microorganisms must be deposited with an International Depositary Authority. 

  • Identification must be carried out using whole genome sequencing. 

  • Specific pathogenic bacteria (e.g., E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus) are prohibited. 

  • Antibacterial or disinfectant claims are not allowed unless compliant with the Biocidal Products Regulation. 

  • Risk assessments are required at both the strain level and the finished product level. 

Phosphorus Content Limits 

Product Type 

Phosphorus Limit 

Consumer laundry detergents 

< 0.5 grams per standard wash dosage (hard water) 

Consumer automatic dishwasher detergents 

< 0.3 grams per standard dosage 

Potential Future Extensions 

The Commission will assess further lowering limits and expanding product scope. 

4. Digital Product Passport (DPP) – Major Innovation 

  • Manufacturers are required to create a Digital Product Passport (DPP) for each detergent and end-user surfactant. 

  • The DPP must be accessible through a data carrier and include a Unique Product Identifier (UPI). 

  • Customs authorities will automatically verify the DPP from September 23, 2029, or once system interconnection becomes operational. 

  • Information must be retained for at least 10 years. 

5. Digital Labelling – Major Innovation 

  • Certain mandatory labelling information may be provided digitally, helping reduce physical label congestion. 

  • However, essential health and environmental protection information, along with minimum usage instructions, must remain on the physical label. 

  • Refill products may rely more extensively on digital labelling, though simplified dosage instructions and allergen information are still mandatory on-pack. 

III. Obligations of Economic Operators 

Manufacturers 

  • Ensure product compliance 

  • Prepare technical documentation 

  • Create and maintain the DPP 

  • Conduct conformity assessments 

  • Provide ingredient datasheets 

  • Retain documentation for 10 years 

Importers 

  • Verify manufacturer compliance 

  • Ensure DPP creation 

  • Provide ingredient datasheets 

  • Display their contact details on the product 

Distributors 

  • Exercise due diligence 

  • Verify labelling and DPP compliance 

  • Maintain records 

  • Report non-compliant products 

Non-EU Manufacturers 

  • Must appoint an EU Authorised Representative responsible for regulatory compliance liaison. 

IV. Animal Testing Ban 

  • In principle, animal testing for detergents and surfactants to meet this Regulation is prohibited. 

  • Historical data obtained before March 22, 2026 may still be used. 

  • The European Commission may grant derogations under exceptional circumstances. 

V. Market Surveillance and Customs Controls 

  • Customs authorities will automatically verify the DPP’s unique registration identifier for imported products. 

  • An EU safeguard procedure is established to resolve enforcement disputes between Member States. 

  • Authorities may take corrective measures even if a product formally complies, where risks to health or the environment are identified. 

 

VI. Transitional Arrangements 

  • Before September 23, 2029: Products placed on the market under the previous framework may continue to be sold. 

  • September 23, 2029 – September 23, 2030: Products manufactured under the old rules but not yet distributed may still be placed on the market. 

  • After September 23, 2030: Full compliance with the new Regulation becomes mandatory.