The European market is known for its strict standards on safety and environmental protection. Among them, REACH is the most important regulation for chemicals and products containing chemicals. Having REACH certification not only helps products gain market acceptance but is also a mandatory requirement for legal export to the European Union.
WHAT IS REACH CERTIFICATION
Definition and purpose of REACH certification
REACH stands for Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals. It is a comprehensive regulation of the European Union. This regulation requires that all chemicals produced or imported into the EU must be registered and thoroughly evaluated. The main goal of REACH is to protect human health and the environment while improving transparency in chemical management.
Scope of REACH application
REACH applies to all organizations that produce or import one ton or more of chemicals per year. It does not apply only to pure chemicals but also to mixtures, materials, and products that release chemicals during use. Therefore, industries such as paint, plastics, textiles, cosmetics, and detergents all fall under REACH control.
WHY REACH CERTIFICATION IS REQUIRED FOR EXPORTING TO EUROPE
Legal requirement
REACH is the unified chemical law of the entire European Union, effective since 2007. Any product without REACH certification is not allowed to circulate within the EU market. Customs authorities can hold, inspect, or return shipments if the company fails to provide valid documentation. Thus, REACH is considered a mandatory “passport” for goods exported to Europe.
Ensuring product safety and credibility
REACH certification proves that a product is safe and free from highly toxic substances (SVHC). This regulation helps protect consumers and enhances the reputation of companies in international markets. European importers often prioritize REACH-certified products as a sign of transparency and regulatory compliance.
Reducing legal risks and costs
Complying with REACH helps businesses avoid legal risks, product recalls, or import bans. By controlling chemical composition from the start, companies can also cut testing and incident-handling costs. Proactive REACH compliance ensures smoother, more sustainable export operations.
REACH REGISTRATION AND COMPLIANCE PROCESS
Basic steps businesses should know
The REACH registration process includes three main steps: defining obligations, preparing technical documentation, and submitting to the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). Non-EU companies must appoint an authorized representative in Europe to handle registration. Once approved, the product receives a REACH code and can be legally distributed throughout the EU.
Maintaining compliance
REACH certification is not permanent and requires periodic updates. Companies must adjust their documentation whenever there are changes in formula, production volume, or supply sources. Maintaining compliance helps prevent trade disruptions and ensures transparency across the supply chain.
VICHEM – OFFICIAL DISTRIBUTOR OF CHEMICAL ADDITIVES FROM COVESTRO, SINOPEC, AND TINOX IN VIETNAM
Vichem is the authorized distributor of chemical additives from major global brands such as Covestro, Sinopec, Tinox, and TotalEnergies in Vietnam, fully compliant with local legal regulations. We not only provide high-quality products but also deliver international-standard after-sales services. Our services include:
- Technical consulting: Helping customers select the right products for their intended applications.
- Color testing: Vichem’s technical team performs color matching tests to ensure design consistency.
- Practical application support: Assisting clients during production integration to achieve optimal performance.
For more information about our products, please contact us through the following channels:
📞 Hotline: 08 1790 1790
📧 Email: contact@vichem.vn
🔎 LinkedIn: Vichem JSC
🌐 Website: www.vichem.vn
📌 Facebook: Vichem JSC
