Import and export of chemicals: Does the PIC Regulation affect you?

If your company imports or exports chemical products from the European Union, it is essential to be familiar with Regulation (EU) No 649/2012, known as the PIC Regulation.

What is the PIC Regulation? 

The PIC Regulation (Prior Informed Consent) governs the international trade of certain hazardous chemicals. Its objective is to ensure that importing countries:

• Are fully informed about the hazards of the chemicals they receive.

• Have the opportunity to accept or reject their import under safe conditions.

This Regulation implements within the EU the commitments arising from the Rotterdam Convention, an international treaty aimed at protecting human health and the environment from certain hazardous chemicals in international trade.

Which products does the PIC Regulation apply to?

The Regulation applies to substances, mixtures and articles containing substances listed in Annex I, mainly hazardous pesticides and chemicals that are banned or severely restricted in the EU.

Overall, it covers more than 50 substances and groups of substances classified as hazardous to human health or the environment.

Obligations for exporters

EU companies wishing to export PIC-listed chemicals from the EU to third countries must:

• Notify the export in advance via the ePIC platform.

• In many cases, obtain the explicit consent of the importing country before the export can take place.

This process requires careful planning and compliance with specific deadlines. Failure to submit notifications in due time may result in logistical delays, export blockages, or even penalties for non-compliance.

In addition, exporters must annually report the quantities exported during the previous year, together with details of the recipients in third countries. Where requested by the competent authority, exporters must also provide additional information on the exported products.

Obligations for importers

EU companies importing chemicals subject to the PIC Regulation must:

• Report the quantities imported during the previous year via ePIC.

• Comply with EU import decisions adopted under the Rotterdam Convention.

• Ensure compliance with applicable EU legislation, such as REACH and CLP.

Comply with the PIC Regulation and Avoid Regulatory Issues

At ServiREACH, we help you to:

• Identify whether your products are affected by the PIC Regulation.
• Manage and submit notifications on time.
• Prepare the required documentation (SDS, labelling, etc.).
• Ensure full compliance with REACH and CLP in your import and export activities.

Do you have questions about how the PIC Regulation affects your business?

Contact us, and our team will help you avoid penalties, delays and regulatory issues—ensuring the safe and responsible trade of your chemical products.