News Brief
On December 31, 2025, Canada officially published the Prohibition of Certain Toxic Substances Regulations, 2025 (referred to as the 2025 Regulations) in Part II of the Canada Gazette, signaling a significant step forward in the country’s toxic substances management framework.
These new regulations will replace the Prohibition of Certain Toxic Substances Regulations, 2012 (2012 Regulations) on June 30, 2026, marking a comprehensive update in scope, exemptions, and compliance requirements.
This article outlines the key changes, timelines, and compliance actions for companies.
What Are the Key Changes in the 2025 Regulations?
Newly Regulated Substances
The 2025 Regulations introduce controls on two additional substances:
Dechlorane Plus (CAS#13560-89-9)
Decabromodiphenyl Ethane (DBDPE) (CAS#84852-53-9)
These flame retardants are commonly used in electronics, automotive components, textile coatings, and construction materials. While no direct health risks have been identified, both substances are classified as Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) due to their high environmental persistence and bioaccumulation potential, which pose significant threats to ecosystems and wildlife.
Under the 2025 Regulations, the production, import, and sale of these substances and their products will be prohibited in Canada starting June 30, 2026.
Stricter PFAS Regulations
The new regulations impose tighter controls on Perfluorooctane Sulfonate (PFOS), Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA), and Long-Chain Perfluorocarboxylic Acids (LC-PFCAs). Key updates include:
Revocation of most permanent exemptions: Only a few exemptions for high-risk uses remain, and these are subject to defined sunset dates.
Mandatory phase-out: Once the sunset date is reached, the use of these substances will be prohibited, encouraging technological substitution and a shift toward green alternatives.
Introduction of a Permit System
The 2025 Regulations establish a permit system for certain exempted activities. Key details include:
Companies must apply to the Canadian government for a permit to produce or use exempted substances.
Permits are valid for one year and can be renewed up to two times, allowing a maximum usage period of three years.
This system is designed to accelerate the transition to safer alternatives and sustainable practices.
Key Timelines
December 31, 2025: Official publication of the 2025 Regulations.
June 30, 2026: The 2025 Regulations take effect, and the 2012 Regulations are repealed.
Transition Period: A limited sell-off period is allowed for products manufactured or imported before the effective date. For critical uses, short-term permits may be granted to facilitate the transition.
How Should Companies Prepare for the Prohibition of Certain Toxic Substances Regulations, 2025?
To comply with the 2025 Regulations, companies in the electronics, automotive, and construction sectors must take immediate action:
Conduct Supply Chain Screening: Identify whether your products contain newly regulated substances such as Dechlorane Plus or DBDPE.
Evaluate Exemptions: Review the updated exemption conditions for PFAS and determine if your operations are affected.
Apply for Permits: If applicable, prepare to submit permit applications to the Canadian government for exempted uses.
Plan for Substitution: Begin exploring alternatives to regulated substances to ensure compliance within the transition period.
How REACH24H Can Help?
As the first and only Asian institution authorized by GreenScreen® and ChemFORWARD, REACH24H provides comprehensive solutions for navigating global chemical regulations and achieving sustainable development.
Using our proprietary CHEMWISE Chemical Intelligent Management System, we offer:
Substance Identification: Systematic detection of high-concern chemicals in your supply chain.
Substitution Feasibility Analysis: Accurate assessment of alternative materials.
Green Transition Support: Tailored strategies to help your business meet regulatory requirements and adopt sustainable practices.
By leveraging advanced technology and regulatory expertise, REACH24H is committed to helping industries transition toward a greener, more transparent, and sustainable future.
For more personalized assistance or relevant information, contact our experts at customer@reach24h.com.
