In this episode of the Safer Chemicals Podcast, host Päivi Jokiniemi is joined by Henrik Hedlund, Chair of ECHA's Enforcement Forum, and Maciej Baranski, Team Leader of ECHA's Harmonised Enforcement Team, to discuss the results of a recent EU-wide REACH enforcement project. Inspectors from 29 countries conducted targeted checks on over 2 600 imported products, focusing on compliance with EU chemical regulations.

The conversation explores the project's scope, objectives, and key findings, including persistent non-compliance in imported mixtures and consumer products such as jewellery, toys, textiles, and footwear. Notably, one in three substances in imported mixtures lacked REACH registration, and hazardous heavy metals were frequently found in jewellery. The episode highlights trends over time, the effectiveness of customs and enforcement collaboration, and the impact of enforcement actions in protecting consumers and the environment.

Listeners will gain insights into the challenges of regulating imported chemicals, the importance of pre-release checks, and recommendations for companies and authorities to improve compliance. The episode concludes with advice for importers and an invitation to follow up on the ongoing project through stakeholder workshops and the full report available on ECHA’s website.

Useful links

Enforcement Forum finds non-compliance in imported substances, mixtures and products - ECHA news, 10 December 2025
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