The European Commission, represented by Executive Vice-President Stéphane Séjourné, has defended the transparency and inclusiveness of its engagements with the European Chemical Industry Council (CEFIC), following criticism over a closed-door summit. In a written reply to a parliamentary question from MEP Anthony Smith (The Left), Séjourné stated that the Commission adheres to existing transparency rules, including publication of meeting agendas, participants, and minutes as per Commissioner Decisions EU 2024/3081 and 2024/3082. The response does not announce new policy positions but clarifies procedural commitments aimed at encouraging balanced dialogue, including openness to meetings with all stakeholders beyond industry bodies. The Commission emphasized compliance with 'better regulation' principles, the precautionary approach, and upholding human health and environmental protection within the Review of REACH regulation, while simplifying administrative burdens and safeguarding competitiveness.
This clarification follows broader debates on chemical regulation transparency. On April 20, 2026, ECHA updated the OECD eChemPortal with 5,000 REACH registrations and 1,229 new substances, continuing its policy of international data sharing. Earlier, on April 17, the Commission confirmed that its proposed lead shot ban under REACH excludes indoor shooting, providing clarity for sports shooters and law enforcement. That clarification came after a parliamentary question from MEP Riho Terras (EPP).
The Commission's response also aligns with ongoing institutional developments. On April 20, the European Parliament rapporteur proposed ECHA reform for stable funding and an expanded mandate, including data gathering and sustainability assessments under the One Substance One Assessment package. The Parliament adopted its position on April 19 on extending data-protection periods in the biocides regulation. Additionally, on April 19, EU committees were set to vote on chemical, cosmetic, and fertiliser rule updates to reduce administrative burdens for small businesses.
In a separate exchange on April 18, the Commission stated that lead ammunition and tackle rules were split into separate files at member states' request, and hunting bullet deadlines were extended. That same day, MEP Anja Arndt (ESN) asked the Commission for a legal framework on weather modification trials, referencing REACH among other regulations.
Commissioner Jessika Roswall, on November 6, 2025, proposed modernizing REACH and boosting innovation, calling for an update to the nearly two-decade-old framework to address emerging risks from PFAS and bisphenols. The Commission's current response reiterates its commitment to these principles while addressing stakeholder concerns. Industrial actors may find regulator engagement clear and streamlined, while civil society groups might remain wary of limited direct access in exclusive meetings. The reply sets expectations for forthcoming transparency reports and legislative proposals affecting chemical regulation enforcement and stakeholder consultation processes.
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