BREAKING NEWS: EU Publishes CLP Regulation “Stop the Clock”

The long-awaited “stop the clock” amendment to the EU CLP Regulation has officially arrived. On 3 December 2025, the European Union published Regulation (EU) 2025/2439 in the Official Journal, confirming a formal postponement of several upcoming compliance deadlines linked to the 2024 CLP revision.

For those who want to view the official text, it is now available in all languages on EUR-Lex, including the English-language PDF version. You can access it here.

What Has Changed?

The new Regulation pushes back a number of transitional periods that were originally set to take effect under the 2024 CLP overhaul. These include requirements linked to:

• Advertising changes

• New formatting and layout rules for labels

• Obligations for distance sales

• Provisions for refillable product stations

• Timelines for updating product labels

  
  

Under the newly published amendment, these elements now share a revised compliance deadline of 1 January 2028. This extension gives the industry significantly more time to adapt to the revised regulatory framework.

When Does the “Stop the Clock” CLP Regulation Become Legally Effective?

Although many stakeholders have been asking when the new provisions officially apply, the answer has now been clarified by the publication itself. The Regulation was signed on 26 November 2025 and states:

“This Regulation shall enter into force on the twentieth day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.”

Since publication occurred on 3 December 2025, the regulation takes effect on 23 December 2025. At that point, it becomes binding and directly applicable across all EU Member States.

Why This Matters

The CLP revision has introduced sweeping obligations for suppliers across the chemicals supply chain. By pausing several of the most operationally demanding elements, the EU has given companies additional time to revise labels, reconfigure systems, adapt to new formatting rules, and manage the practical realities of compliance. This extension will be especially relevant for businesses handling large product portfolios, e-commerce operations, and refill station models.

Understanding the Implications of the Amendment

The amendment is crucial for businesses that deal with chemicals. It allows for a smoother transition into compliance with the new regulations. Companies can now focus on ensuring that their products meet the necessary standards without the pressure of immediate deadlines.

Navigating Compliance Challenges

Compliance with regulations like CLP can be daunting. The extended deadlines provide an opportunity to thoroughly understand the requirements. Companies should take this time to assess their current compliance status and identify areas that need improvement.

Preparing for the Future

As we move towards the new compliance deadlines, it is essential to stay informed. Regular updates from regulatory bodies can help businesses remain compliant. Engaging with experts in chemical regulations can also provide valuable insights.

The Role of Technology in Compliance

Utilising technology can streamline compliance processes. Software solutions can assist in managing product information, labelling requirements, and regulatory updates. Investing in such tools can save time and reduce the risk of non-compliance.

Conclusion

The “stop the clock” amendment is a significant development for the chemical industry. It offers a much-needed reprieve for businesses as they navigate the complexities of compliance. By taking advantage of this extension, companies can ensure their products are fully compliant, allowing them to expand into new markets smoothly and without hassle.

In summary, the new compliance deadlines are not just a delay; they are an opportunity to enhance our understanding and implementation of the regulations. Let us embrace this time to prepare effectively for the future of chemical compliance.