The Blog

Introduction

On the 30th of March 2026, the UK government has published its summary of responses to the consultation on the Alternative Transitional Registration Model (ATRm) for UK REACH, addressing long-standing concerns over the chemicals registration burden following Brexit. This newsletter provides an overview of the key elements of the update and implications for companies affected by UK REACH registration requirements.

Consultation Background

The ATRm consultation was launched in May 2024 and concluded on July 25, 2024. Its main objective was to seek input on easing transitional registrations for substances that had previously been registered under EU REACH before 2021. UK REACH, the UK’s post-Brexit chemicals framework, has faced criticism for duplicative data requirements, high costs, and delays. As a result, registration deadlines were extended in 2023 to allow for the development of ATRm.

DEFRA’s primary aim was to reduce administrative burdens on industry, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), while maintaining safety standards. Respondents to the consultation highlighted a period of system “paralysis,” noting that no new restrictions had been adopted since Brexit and only two ongoing processes had occurred in over three years. The consultation addressed registration requirements, hazard data, exposure information, substance groups, and proposed improvements such as faster restrictions and anti-animal testing measures.

Following extensive consultation with industry, non-governmental organizations, and trade associations, and subject to the consent of Scottish and Welsh Ministers, the UK Government plans to bring forward legislation to extend the deadlines for compliance to October 27, 2029, 2030 and 2031.

Implications for Industry: What’s Changing

• The UK will use regulatory decisions from trusted jurisdictions, particularly the EU, as a starting point. Alignment will occur where appropriate unless there are strong reasons to diverge.
• Transitional registrations will require less upfront data than originally proposed, reflecting that many substances are already well understood internationally.
• The “no data, no market” principle remains central, ensuring safety and transparency for chemicals used in Great Britain.
• No additional requirements will be introduced for expanded use and exposure information, which helps reduce unnecessary regulatory burden.
• Authorities will retain the power to request further information later if needed to support regulatory decisions.

Key Actions for UK REACH Registrants

• Submitting core hazard information
• Providing use and exposure information in line with existing UK REACH rules
• Completing targeted chemical safety assessments and reports when triggered
• Participating in substance groups and data sharing, similar to EU SIEFs

Overall, the updated ATRm reflects a more proportionate, risk-based approach. It balances reduced administrative burden for registrants with continued protection of environmental and human health.

Have questions or need support?

Our REACHLaw UK team is ready to support your company with all aspects of UK REACH Registration. Please feel free to contact us at sales@reachlaw.fi for further assistance!

More information can be found here: Summary of responses and government response – GOV.UK