REGULATION (EU) 2026/405 ON DETERGENTS AND SURFACTANTS USED IN DETERGENTS HAS BEEN PUBLISHED!

Content addition date : 09-03-2026

With (EU) 2026/405, the European Union has updated the rules on detergents and surfactants, introducing significant innovations such as digital product passports, digital labeling, specific safety criteria for products containing microorganisms, and expanded biodegradability requirements. The new regulation repeals (EU) No 648/2004, which has been in effect since 2004, from September 23, 2029, and foresees stricter market surveillance mechanisms for imported products, including environmental protection, circular economy goals, and online sales. In particular, the digital product passport makes it mandatory for product conformity information to be traceable electronically and serves as a source of product information to be examined during customs controls.

Another important innovation is the requirement for non-EU detergent exporters to appoint an Authorized Representative within the EU.

The regulation will enter into force on 22 March 2026, and all its provisions, except for Articles 4(3) and (4), will apply from 23 September 2029. Products placed on the market and in the distribution chain in accordance with Regulation (EC) 648/2004 before this date may be sold until stocks are depleted. Detergents and surfactants placed on the market after 22 September 2029 and before 23 September 2030, and complying with Regulation (EC) 648/2004 which is in effect on 22 September 2029, may remain on the market until 23 September 2030. This timeline is critical for compliance planning for manufacturers and exporters. Companies exporting detergent products to EU countries should carefully review the regulation and its annexes.

The relevant regulation text can be accessed here.