The latest proposed amendments to China’s law on the environment management of chemical substances has been released. Eco-toxicological testing of new chemical substances would be required, even if the products have passed similar tests in other regions, and would have to be conducted at Chinese labs. Notification procedures would be simplified for chemicals manufactured or imported in the amount of less than one metric ton annually. General notification would be required for higher amounts, with increasing oversight based on amount. Also proposed are three new environmental-risk categories, as well as new filing categories for technological research and scientific research. New chemicals regulations are expected to be announced by January 1, 2010.

Source: International Environment Reporter