Results of the public consultation on the SEAC draft opinion on the universal REACH restriction proposal for PFAS

ECHA has published the outcome of the public consultation on the draft opinion of the Socio-Economic Analysis Committee (SEAC) concerning the proposed restriction on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). During the 60-day consultation period, which ran from 26 March to 25 May 2026, a total of 3,511 comments were received from more than 3,200 organizations, together with 250 individual submissions.

The consultation demonstrated strong engagement from a broad range of stakeholders, with industry accounting for most contributions. Companies represented 61.6% of respondents, followed by trade associations (25.9%). The remaining submissions came from individuals (7.7%), non-governmental organizations (2.4%), national authorities (1.4%) and academia (0.9%).

From a geographical perspective, Germany submitted the highest number of contributions, followed by Japan, Belgium, France, China, the United States and Italy.

The consultation focused on the assessment of the socio-economic impacts of the proposed restriction. In particular, respondents provided evidence regarding the availability of alternatives, the need for appropriate transition periods, the associated costs, and the potential effects on industrial competitiveness.

In addition to general comments (45.1%), the sectors generating the highest volume of feedback included electronics and semiconductors (12.7%), fluorinated gas applications (6.6%), energy (6.2%), transport (6.1%), and lubricants (5.3%).

SEAC is currently reviewing the comments received to determine whether the conclusions set out in its draft opinion should be confirmed or revised. As previously announced, the Committee is expected to adopt its final opinion by the end of 2026.

It should also be noted that the Risk Assessment Committee (RAC) adopted its opinion on the draft restriction proposal on 2 March 2026. Once SEAC has adopted its final opinion, both opinions will be submitted to the European Commission, which will prepare a formal restriction proposal in the form of a draft regulation. The proposal will then be discussed and voted on by the Member States within the REACH Committee.