UK Eyes Delay for REACH Deadlines

DEFRA Opens Consultation on Extended UK REACH Timelines

The UK Government has launched a public consultation proposing an extension of key registration deadlines under the UK REACH chemicals regulation. The consultation, initiated by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) on 14 July 2025, will remain open for feedback until 8 September 2025.

Why the Extension Is Proposed?

The proposed delay is driven by continued delays in finalizing the Alternative Transitional Registration model (ATRm). This model is expected to reduce data-sharing burdens for companies moving from EU REACH to the UK system. DEFRA aims to avoid unnecessary compliance costs while ATRm is still under development.

Three Deadline Options on the Table

DEFRA is seeking input on three sets of revised registration deadlines:

• Option 1 (Preferred): October 2029, October 2030, and October 2031
• Option 2: April 2029, April 2031, and April 2033
• Option 3: April 2029, April 2030, and April 2031

DEFRA’s preferred Option 1 offers a balanced timeline, allowing at least two years of preparation time after ATRm is finalized.

Changes to Compliance Check Schedules

Alongside new registration deadlines, DEFRA is proposing to align Health and Safety Executive (HSE) compliance checks—as required under Article 41(5) of UK REACH—with the revised timeline.

Who Should Respond?

DEFRA invites responses from:

• Chemical manufacturers and importers
• Downstream users
• Industry associations and regulatory experts

Submissions can be made via the DEFRA consultation portal or by email/post.

Recommended Actions for Companies

Businesses are encouraged to:

• Assess how each option affects their compliance plans
• Adjust internal timelines accordingly
• Stay updated on ATRm developments
• Participate in the consultation to ensure industry needs are reflected

Consultation Deadline: 8 September 2025

For more information and to submit feedback, visit the official consultation page.