If you’ve already started preparing new labels for your products, due to the updated CLP in November 2024, here’s an important update:
The European Parliament voted to postpone the start of the application dates for certain updated CLP sections, which also affect labelling of your products. The regulation REGULATION (EU) 2025/2439 has been published here.
What does this delay mean in simple terms?
Originally, the new CLP requirements would start applying on 1st of January 2026 and will be in full force by 1st of January 2027.
But now, Members of the European Parliament have agreed to move the date to 1 January 2028 for some provisions.
The most important provisions that now apply from 1 January 2028:
- Minimum font size
- Text printed in black on white background
- Use of single font on the label
In practice, this means:
- You don’t need to change your product labels right away.
- There’s more time to adjust your systems, artwork, packaging, and documentation.
Some parts of the new rules — especially those related to labelling and information shown on packaging — might even become simpler (but this is still ongoing and not part of this published regulation).
What’s behind this regulation?
The EU wants to simplify the rules on chemicals that have become quite complex over time.
So, the delay is not just about giving extra time — it’s part of a broader plan to make the labelling rules easier to understand and apply.
Should you stop preparing? No.
Even with the delay for these provisions, it’s smart to stay alert and ready.
Here’s why:
- The changes are coming — the date just moved further away for some provision.
- Simplified doesn’t necessarily mean “less work.” It might mean that some information will be displayed differently (for example, no more black text on white background).
- Companies that prepare early will avoid stress and last-minute corrections (You know that feeling, right?)
What you can do now
If you deal with chemicals, here’s what I recommend:
- Keep your current labels as they are, but make sure they already comply with the current CLP Regulation.
- Don’t redesign everything yet. Wait until the simplified version is officially published — that way, you won’t have to redo work later.
- Follow updates
- Plan your budget wisely – since the new rules were partially postponed, you might be able to spread compliance costs over a longer period.
Why this matters
The CLP Regulation determines how chemicals are labelled and how hazards are communicated to users.
When changes come, they affect:
- Product labels (size of text, readability, placement of hazard symbols, etc.),
- Safety Data Sheets (SDS),
- Packaging and
- Advertising of chemical products.
If you sell or import any chemicals in the EU, the CLP rules apply to you — even if you only deal with small quantities.
In short
The new CLP rules have been postponed to 1 January 2028 for some provisions.
The EU plans to simplify the labelling part, but the procedure is ongoing.
For now, focus on staying compliant with current requirements, follow updates, and prepare calmly once more information is available.
We’ll share the key points about the simplified labels as soon as the official text for simplification of the CLP is published.
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