China: New Chemicals Ordinance enters into force on 1 January 2021

The newly revised Measures on Environmental Management of New Chemical Substances Regulation (MEE Order No. 12) will enter into force on 1 January 2021. With this order, the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (MEE) replaces the predecessor MEP Order No. 7. The scope of the regulation is for new chemicals not yet listed on the inventory of chemical substances in China (IECSC) before they are manufactured, imported or used.

Order No. 12 contains significant changes compared to its predecessor, in the registration type and in the data requirements. In addition, the law establishes shortened delivery times for the notification of polymers, as well as simplified procedures for inclusion in IECSC and enhanced post-notification responsibilities. The authority has already announced stricter controls and penalties in the event of non-compliance. Non-IECSC-listed substances of new BASF products will be notified or registered by BASF in accordance with the newly revised ordinance.