REACH Annex XVII: chromium(VI) restriction proposal moves toward final SEAC opinion
ECHA is advancing a restriction proposal for certain chromium(VI) oxides, oxyacids and salts under REACH Annex XVII, covering electroplating, surface treatment, primers/slurry coatings and related use categories. The SEAC draft-opinion consultation closed on 17 August 2026; SEAC's final opinion is expected before the file goes to the European Commission. This is not yet a binding restriction, but affected companies should start mapping exposure, emissions and substitution options now.
Published16 Sept 2026
EffectiveRestriction proposal under REACH — not yet adopted
Compliance deadlineSEAC's final opinion is expected around end of 2026; the joint RAC/SEAC opinions then go to the European Commission, which decides whether to add the restriction to REACH Annex XVII.
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