On 3 June 2026, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) published the outcome of the 60-day consultation on the draft opinion of its Committee for Socio-Economic Analysis (SEAC) regarding the proposed restriction of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) under the REACH Regulation. The consultation, conducted from 26 March to 25 May 2026, generated substantial stakeholder engagement, with 3,511 comments submitted by more than 3,200 organisations and approximately 250 individuals representing industry, public authorities, academia, and civil society. The consultation covered the general elements of the draft opinion, PFAS manufacturing, and 14 specific industrial sectors evaluated by SEAC. Stakeholder submissions primarily addressed the socio-economic implications of the proposed restriction, including the availability of alternatives, transition periods, implementation costs, supply chain impacts, and potential effects on industrial competitiveness. ECHA stated that SEAC is currently reviewing all evidence-based submissions to determine whether modifications to the draft opinion are warranted. Comments received during the consultation have been published on ECHA’s website, except for information designated as confidential by respondents. SEAC is expected to adopt its final opinion by the end of 2026, completing ECHA’s scientific evaluation process. The final opinions from both SEAC and the Risk Assessment Committee (RAC) will then be submitted to the European Commission, which will prepare a restriction proposal for consideration and voting by EU Member States within the REACH Committee.
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