Since 1 January 2026, France has enforced one of the strictest PFAS bans worldwide – a law that not only protects consumers but also transforms the entire consumer goods industry. Products such as cosmetics, clothing, footwear, and ski wax may no longer contain PFAS (“forever chemicals”).

The decision for such far-reaching measures was already made in February 2025, supported by more than 140,000 citizens calling for stronger regulations. France is thus taking a pioneering role in Europe and setting new standards in health protection and chemicals policy.

Why PFAS had to be banned

PFAS are extremely chemically stable, accumulate in the environment and the human body, and are associated with cancer, reduced fertility, immune system disorders, and drinking water contamination. Their use has been standard for decades – in outdoor jackets, make‑up, ski wax, and more. But their risks are now clearly proven.

Products banned since 1 January 2026

France now prohibits the manufacture, import, export, and sale of PFAS-containing products where alternatives exist, including:

• Cosmetics
• Clothing, textiles, and footwear
• Ski wax

Products manufactured before the deadline may still be sold until 1 January 2027, ensuring existing inventory does not immediately become worthless.

A proposed ban on PFAS-containing non-stick cookware was removed from the law following strong industry lobbying.

Exceptions – where they are necessary

The law includes exceptions for areas where PFAS replacements are not yet technically feasible:

• Protective clothing for firefighters, the military, and civil protection
• Industrial and medical textiles
• Products containing at least 20% recycled material, provided PFAS are present only within the recycled portion

What the PFAS ban means for manufacturers

The impact on companies – especially in the textile, footwear, and cosmetics sectors – is substantial. France is forcing manufacturers into one of the most extensive transformation processes of recent decades.

1. Mandatory material changes and product redevelopment

Manufacturers must now find PFAS‑free alternatives for:

• water‑repellent coatings
• stain‑resistant finishes
• cosmetic effects and formulations

Many PFAS‑free technologies already exist but are not always equivalent – particularly for performance textiles or long-lasting impregnation treatments. Companies will need to rethink product development and restructure parts of their supply chains.

The French textile industry in particular has expressed concern: industry representatives warn of potential competitive disadvantages, as no other European country has introduced such far‑reaching regulations so far.

2. Supply chains must be rebuilt and certified

PFAS previously entered supply chains via global pre‑materials. Now manufacturers must:

• identify new suppliers
• verify PFAS‑free pre‑materials
• certify materials through laboratory testing

France has defined clear limits on permissible residual PFAS levels and requires documentation if certain fluorine thresholds are exceeded.

This increases administrative workload and obliges manufacturers to significantly expand their quality assurance processes.

3. Economic risks – but also opportunities

Risks for companies:

• higher short‑term production costs
• costs for testing and certification
• potential adaptation of machinery and production technologies
• risk of losing competitiveness compared to countries with less strict regulations

Opportunities:

• early positioning as a PFAS‑free premium brand
• access to new markets with sustainable products
• improved consumer perception
• reduced liability risks due to stricter environmental standards

Companies that adopt PFAS‑free innovation early may gain a reputational advantage, especially as other countries are likely to follow.

4. Transition periods offer relief – but only temporarily

The sales grace period until January 2027 offers temporary relief, but merely delays the challenges. By 2030, the ban will be extended to cover almost all textiles – another driver pushing companies toward long‑term transformation.

Manufacturers who act now will gain planning security and avoid rushed and costly adjustments later.

France as a European trendsetter

France is not only demonstrating regulatory determination but is also putting indirect pressure on the EU to implement similar measures. EU‑level regulation is progressing slowly – France is intentionally moving ahead, fully aware of the impact on its industry.

Conclusion: A paradigm shift that will permanently transform the industry

The PFAS ban is more than an environmental regulation – it marks an ecological and economic turning point. Manufacturers must now become more innovative, transparent, and sustainable. Yet within this challenge lies opportunity: companies that embrace the transition early will become leaders in a new, PFAS‑free product landscape.

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