EU Tightens Mercury Rules: New Product Bans

Mercury

The European Commission has adopted a new delegated regulation amending the EU Mercury Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2017/852). This update aligns EU law with the Minamata Convention on Mercury, a global treaty aimed at protecting human health and the environment from mercury emissions.

What’s Changing?

Starting December 31, 2025, the manufacture, import, and export of the following mercury-added products will be prohibited in the EU:

  • High-precision capacitance and loss factor bridges
  • High-frequency switches and relays in monitoring and control instruments
    with a mercury content exceeding 20 mg per component.
    Exceptions apply only for research and development purposes.

Why Does It Matter?

Mercury is highly toxic and poses serious risks to both human health and ecosystems. By banning these products, the EU takes another step toward phasing out mercury use and promoting safer, mercury-free alternatives.

Global Alignment

These changes implement decisions made at the Minamata COP5 conference and ensure the EU meets its international commitments. Europe continues to lead the way in chemical safety and environmental protection.


What Businesses Need to Do

Companies that manufacture or trade mercury-added products must act now:

  • Review product portfolios for compliance
  • Identify mercury-free alternatives
  • Update supply chain and export strategies

The regulation enters into force three days after publication in the Official Journal of the EU.


Key Takeaways

  • Effective date: December 31, 2025
  • Scope: Manufacture, import, and export bans for specific mercury-added products
  • Goal: Protect health and environment, comply with Minamata Convention

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