VdL: New CLP regulation places a heavy burden on the coatings industry
The revised CLP Regulation brings enormous costs and organizational hurdles for the paint, coatings and printing ink industry. New labeling rules, short implementation deadlines and high investments pose existential challenges for many companies.
On December 10, 2024, the revision of the EU CLP Regulation (Classification, Labeling and Packaging) came into force. The aim was to adapt to global markets, technical developments and online trade - but the changes mean enormous burdens for the coatings industry. New hazard classes, stricter labeling rules and a six-month deadline after reclassification by raw material suppliers require expensive adjustments in production, labeling and documentation. Particularly problematic are the minimum font sizes, which are almost impossible to implement, especially for small packaging.
High investments and additional personnel requirements for the paint and coatings industry
Many manufacturers have to completely change container sizes, label formats and storage processes. Switching to folded labels requires new printing and gluing machines, IT systems and additional storage space. Depending on the size of the company, the conversion costs range from hundreds of thousands to millions of euros, in some cases up to 15% of production costs. The pressure is also increasing in terms of personnel: additional jobs for labeling, documentation and PCN notifications are unavoidable in many places.
Paint and coatings industry demands digital solutions and adaptation
Associations such as VdL and CEPE are pushing for more practical approaches - such as the use of digital labels via QR code or a standardized, streamlined PCN report across Europe. The industry is pinning its hopes on the EU's planned "Omnibus" regulation, which is set to become part of an action plan for the chemical industry in July 2025. The aim: reducing bureaucracy, competitiveness and realistic regulations for the paint and coatings industry.