The recent EuMBC meeting in Cologne, held on October 14 and 15, confirmed how central the topic of regulation is today for the thermoplastic compounds industry. Hosted by Sun Chemical, the event saw the active participation of Daniele Magni, Product Regulatory Technician and Cristiano Citterio, Product Regulatory Affairs Manager at LATI, protagonists of an intense discussion on topics destined to change the future of the sector.
EuMBC, a sectoral group of EuPC of which LATI is a founding member, has the task of representing European companies in the compound and masterbatch sector in dialogue with institutions. The objective is to address the main regulatory challenges with a constructive spirit, promoting safety, transparency and free movement of goods in a rapidly evolving context.
PPWR and Sustainability: more than an Objective, a Responsibility
Among the most debated topics during the meeting emerges the new EU Packaging Regulation (PPWR). Among the main innovations:
- Ban on PFAS in packaging starting from the second half of 2026;
- Definition of substances of concern for packaging;
- Extension of reuse and recycling obligations also to the B2B sector.
This regulation represents a key step in the path towards a circular economy, but introduces significant challenges for compound manufacturers, called upon to guarantee functional, safe and sustainable materials.
MOCA and Purity: the Impact of the 19th Amendment to Regulation (EU) No. 10/2011
Another crucial focus is the recent amendment to Regulation (EU) No. 10/2011 relating to MOCA (Materials and Objects in Contact with Food), which introduces the concept of “High Degree of Purity”. This implies:
- Assessment of NIAS (Non Intentionally Added Substances);
- Transmission of information throughout the entire supply chain;
- Greater responsibility also for those who place the finished product on the market.
Food compliance today requires close collaboration between base manufacturers, processors and end users.
Microplastics and Traceability: the New European Regulation
The fight against microplastic dispersion also had ample space in the debate. The new regulation is already in the implementation phase and provides that:
- By May 2026, manufacturers and industrial users will have to carry out reporting to ECHA;
- The operational procedures have been developed for some time by 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 front of functional additives, the news is multiple:
- The cancellation of the classification of titanium dioxide (TiO2), after a long legal battle, has given relief to manufacturers;
- The assessment of Carbon black is expected for 2027;
- The French proposal to classify talc as Carc. 1B is under discussion;
- In parallel, an inter-association project has been launched to provide additional scientific evidence on the matrix effect in polymeric mixtures.
Also in this area, the rigor of the scientific approach will be decisive in guiding regulation.
Compliance: from Obligation to Strategic Lever
The picture that emerged from the EuMBC meeting is clear: regulatory compliance is no longer a simple requirement, but a true competitive driver. Being updated, transparent, proactive and constructive with respect to regulatory changes is today fundamental for innovating in a responsible and sustainable way.
LATI, an active part of the European industrial ecosystem, confirms its commitment to collaborate with trade associations, technical stakeholders and institutions to anticipate changes, support customers and offer solutions that are safe, compliant and future-oriented.
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