The recent EuMBC meeting in Cologne, held on October 14–15, confirmed how central regulation has become for the thermoplastic compounds industry. Hosted by Sun Chemical, the event featured active participation from Daniele Magni, Product Regulatory Technician, and Cristiano Citterio, Product Regulatory Affairs Manager at LATI, who engaged in an intensive discussion on topics poised to shape the sector’s future.
 |
EuMBC, a sector group of EuPC of which LATI is a founding member, represents European companies in the compounds and masterbatch sector in dialogue with institutions. Its goal is to tackle the main regulatory challenges constructively, promoting safety, transparency, and free movement of goods in a rapidly evolving context.
PPWR and Sustainability: More Than a Goal, a Responsibility
Among the most discussed topics at the meeting was the new EU Packaging Regulation (PPWR). Key points include:
• Ban on PFAS in packaging starting in the second half of 2026;
• Definition of substances of concern for packaging;
• Extension of reuse and recycling obligations to the B2B sector.
This regulation represents a key step toward a circular economy but introduces significant challenges for compound producers, who must ensure functional, safe, and sustainable materials.
FCM and Purity: Impact of the 19th Amendment to Regulation (EU) No. 10/2011
Another crucial focus was the recent amendment to Regulation (EU) No. 10/2011 concerning FCM (Food Contact Materials), which introduces the concept of a “High Degree of Purity.” This entails:
• Evaluation of NIAS (Non-Intentionally Added Substances);
• Transmission of information along the entire supply chain;
• Increased responsibility for those placing the finished product on the market.
Food compliance today requires close collaboration between base material producers, converters, and end users.
Microplastics and Traceability: The New European Regulation
The fight against microplastic dispersion was also widely discussed. The new regulation, already in the implementation phase, stipulates that:
• By May 2026, industrial producers and users must report to ECHA;
• Operational procedures have long been established through the Operation Clean Sweep® (OCS) certification scheme.
This is an important step for environmental sustainability and traceability throughout the material’s life cycle.
Functional Additives: New Assessments Underway
On the functional additives front, several updates are ongoing:
• The annulment of the titanium dioxide (TiO₂) classification, after a long legal battle, has provided relief to producers;
• Carbon black is expected to be evaluated in 2027;
• The French proposal to classify talc as Carc. 1B is under discussion;
• In parallel, an inter-associative project has been launched to provide further scientific evidence on the matrix effect in polymer blends.
Even in this area, a rigorous scientific approach will be decisive in guiding regulation.
Compliance: From Obligation to Strategic Lever
The picture emerging from the EuMBC meeting is clear: regulatory compliance is no longer merely an obligation, but a true competitive driver. Being informed, transparent, proactive, and forward-looking regarding regulatory changes is now essential to innovate responsibly and sustainably.
LATI, an active participant in the European industrial ecosystem, reaffirms its commitment to collaborating with trade associations, technical stakeholders, and institutions to anticipate changes, support customers, and provide safe, compliant, and future-oriented solutions.
