How to Start Selling Chemicals in BiH Without Hassles - Part 2

In the first part, we covered the basic obligations of chemical manufacturers and importers in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Today, I'll tell you more about the specific requirements for chemicals.

Let's first look at the situation in the Republic of Srpska.

In the Republic of Srpska, chemicals that are produced or imported above the prescribed lower threshold must be registered in the Chemical Inventory managed by the competent authority before the first import. For this, you need to submit the required documentation, including a safety data sheet and a label with appropriate hazard markings:

• For detergents, you also need to provide composition data lists.
• For paints and varnishes, it's important to know the VOC content for specific categories.

When it comes to biocides, they need to be registered, which requires not only a safety data sheet and appropriate labeling but also additional evidence, including efficacy tests.

Registering in the Chemical Inventory and registering biocides, as well as preparing safety data sheets, are not the only things you need to watch out for. Here are some other regulations you need to pay attention to:

• A list of banned and restricted chemicals is in force (aligned with Annex XVII of the REACH regulation).
• A list of SVHC chemicals is in force (aligned with Annex XIV of the REACH regulation), as well as the Candidate List.
• Biodegradability conditions for surfactants are prescribed (aligned with the detergent regulation).
• VOC restrictions for paints and varnishes are prescribed (aligned with Annex II of the Paints Directive).
• Permitted active substances for biocidal products are prescribed (aligned with the biocides regulation and implementing acts).

Keep in mind: alignment with EU regulations is done by adopting local regulations. This can lead to differences in the lists that are in force locally compared to those in force in the EU.

Once the above requirements are met, trade is free with record-keeping and regular annual reporting on trade. However, additional obligations such as permits for importing precursors may be prescribed.

This concludes the second part of this three-part text.

In the third and final part, we will look at the requirements to be aware of in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as some additional obligations.

But if you need help fulfilling obligations in the Republic of Srpska, feel free to contact me at nina.pajovic@bens-consulting.eu.