CLP Regulation

What is the CLP?

The EU is revising the Regulation on the Classification, Labelling and Packaging (CLP) of chemicals, as part of the Chemicals Omnibus. The updated rules will introduce changes to label layout (including colours, spacing and legibility), timelines for relabelling, digital contact information and advertising requirements.

The objective of the CLP is to simplify compliance and reduce administrative burdens while maintaining high safety standards. EU institutions are currently defining their positions ahead of interinstitutional negotiations.

Why is it important?

Adhesives and sealants are essential across construction, transport, packaging, electronics, renewable energy and consumer goods. Clear, workable labelling rules are crucial to ensure uninterrupted access to the EU market.

These products also contribute directly to Europe’s competitiveness and sustainability objectives. They:

  • Enable lightweight vehicle design, reducing energy use
  • Support renewable technologies such as solar panels and wind turbine blades
  • Increase product durability and repairability
  • Facilitate circular solutions such as debonding-on-demand and reusable packaging
  • Remain compatible with high recycling rates (EU end-of-life vehicle recycling exceeds 89%)

Proportionate CLP rules are therefore key to preserving these benefits without creating unnecessary barriers, particularly for SMEs.

What are we asking for?

FEICA supports the objectives of the revision and calls for a balanced, practical approach:

  • Proportionate legibility rules. Replace rigid font-size requirements with principle-based rules on colour, spacing and readability to avoid unnecessary redesigns, particularly for small packaging
  • Realistic relabelling timelines. Allow at least 18 months to update labels following upstream changes, applied sequentially across the supply chain
  • Flexible contact details. Allow digital contact information on a voluntary basis, while keeping phone numbers as a reliable and rapid response option
  • Small packaging. We support a derogation for packages ≤ 75 mL, coupled with the option to provide certain elements via a QR code or equivalent digital access
  • Advertisement and distance sales. We support the inclusion of the sentence:  ‘Always read the label and product information before use. See hazard information at point of purchase’. Regarding distance sales, we support the application of requirements only for B2C sales

 

Related documents and information: