Smart regulation is the cornerstone of a competitive industry in Europe. Being developed now by the European Commission, smart regulation policy aims to reduce unnecessary regulatory burden.
We insist that the focus must not only include impact assessment, but also competitiveness proofing and fitness checks – two main tools designed to ensure more consistent and efficient regulation. Chemicals legislation is one area where the Commission should apply legislative fitness checks.
More specifically, chemicals regulation should refer to REACH as the central piece of chemicals law. Policymakers should use REACH on a systematic basis to avoid unnecessary burdens such as double testing.
Hubert Mandery, director general at Cefic, said: “Europe needs to improve legal and regulatory frameworks, especially where it applies to industries such as chemicals. A smart regulation framework is essential if we are to stay on a competitive footing in a global marketplace.”