The Chemicals Administration (CHA) under Taiwan’s Ministry of Environment has released a draft proposal to strengthen the management of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) by incorporating 269 PFAS substances into the national chemical control framework.

The proposal was officially announced on September 15, 2025, and aims to enhance environmental protection and reduce potential risks to human health posed by persistent PFAS chemicals.

Regulatory Background

PFAS are synthetic chemicals widely used for their oil-, water-, and stain-resistant properties. Due to their high persistence, bioaccumulation potential, and toxicity concerns, certain PFAS such as PFOS, PFOA, and PFHxS are already regulated in Taiwan under the Toxic and Concerned Chemical Substances Control Act.

The newly proposed draft significantly expands regulatory coverage to align Taiwan’s chemical management approach with international PFAS control trends.

Scope of the Proposed PFAS List

The draft proposal categorizes PFAS into three substance groups, each subject to differentiated management requirements: (For reference: Draft Proposal )

Perfluoroalkyl Acids and Precursors
  • Includes acids, precursors, and related compounds
  • Applicable when PFAS content is ≥0.1%
  • Requires approval for manufacturing, importing, selling, using, and storage
  • Obligations include:
    • Monthly recordkeeping
    • Quarterly reporting
    • Container and packaging labelling
    • Preparation of Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
Polymeric PFAS
  • Commonly used in plastics and coatings
  • ≥0.1% and <30%: container and packaging labelling required
  • ≥30%: full regulatory controls apply, including approval, reporting, and SDS obligations
Gaseous PFAS
  • Managed under thresholds like polymeric PFAS
  • Labelling required at ≥0.1%
  • Full regulatory requirements apply at ≥30%

Operational and Compliance Requirements

Under the proposed measures, regulated entities must ensure:

  • Accurate identification and classification of PFAS substances
  • Regular submission of operational records and quarterly reports
  • Clear labelling and hazard communication
  • Disclosure of PFAS content across the supply chain

The controls apply to manufacturing, import, sale, use, and storage, significantly expanding oversight across the PFAS lifecycle.

Exemptions and Transitional Arrangements

The draft allows exemptions for PFAS used solely in research, testing, educational, or experimental activities, provided they fall outside the scope of the Toxic and Concerned Chemical Substances Control Act.

To support implementation, the Ministry plans to grant a two-year transition period following final adoption of the measures, enabling businesses to adjust compliance systems.

Public Consultation Period

The CHA will accept public comments for 60 days from the announcement date. Feedback received during this period will be considered before finalizing the PFAS control list and associated management requirements.

Impact on Industry

If adopted, the proposal will have significant implications for companies involved in PFAS-containing products in Taiwan. Affected businesses should:

  • Review PFAS presence in raw materials and finished products
  • Prepare for approval, reporting, and labelling obligations
  • Participate in the public consultation process

Source: Taiwan Drafts PFAS Controls

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