ECHA invites comments on Swedish restrictions proposal

13 Nov '13

4 min read

The proposed restriction is therefore considered an effective measure for reducing the identified risks. The report proposes a transitional period of 5 years after the proposed restriction enters into force. This would give companies using NPs and NPEs in the manufacturing of textile articles sufficient time to adapt their manufacturing process to the future European restrictions. In its report, Sweden argues that there are appropriate alternatives available, such as alcohol ethoxylates and glucose based surfactants, which are already used today in the manufacturing process of textiles.

These alternatives are considered to be as effective as NPs and NPEs, but contain less health and environmental risks. The alternatives for NPs and NPEs are available at marginally higher prices. The costs of substituting NP and NPEs with these alternatives are therefore expected to be limited. Sweden argues that an EU-wide restriction is desirable as this would remove the potentially distorting effect that national restrictions may have on the free movement of goods in the Union market.

At the same time it will ensure a “level playing field” among EU producers and non-EU importers of textile articles. Hong Kong traders should bear in mind that interested parties are invited to submit comments on Sweden’s report by 18 March 2014 at the latest.

However, the Committee for Risk Assessment (the RAC) and the Committee for Socio-economic Analysis (the SEAC) would appreciate receiving comments by 29 November 2013 to assist them in the detailed discussion of Sweden’s restrictions proposal, scheduled for December 2013. After it has received the RAC and SEAC’s opinions, the European Commission will take a final decision on whether to adopt the proposed restriction.

HKTDC