The timeline for publishing the long-awaited REACH revision is becoming increasingly uncertain. According to the latest draft agenda of the College of Commissioners, the legislative proposal will not be released in 2025, despite earlier expectations.

Missing from the updated work schedule

The indicative agenda published in early November sets out all initiatives planned for adoption between November and January. The REACH revision is absent from the list, effectively signalling a shift of the publication date to 2026 at the earliest.

This reinforces the perception that the European Commission is holding back the proposal, even as Member States and stakeholders continue to call for clarity after several years of delay.

Internal challenges and a negative RSB opinion

Concerns about timing intensified after the Regulatory Scrutiny Board (RSB) issued a negative opinion on the impact assessment supporting the planned reform. While such an opinion does not halt the process, it frequently requires substantial rework, often resulting in long postponements.

Additionally, the revision was not included in the Commission’s 2026 work programme, suggesting that internal alignment on the final package is still lacking.

Parallel legislative developments: environmental omnibus

The updated agenda also indicates that the Commission intends to adopt the environmental omnibus in early December. This initiative aims to streamline parts of EU environmental law and is expected to include the phase-out of the SCIP database.

What does this mean for industry?

• continued uncertainty regarding future REACH requirements,

• a high likelihood of further delays in the revision process,

• the need to track parallel regulatory changes, including the potential discontinuation of SCIP.

SDS Create will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as soon as new information becomes available.