Coping with the forthcoming chemical legislation in the European Union, REACH, is not likely to cause any substantial problems to economies in African, Caribbean and Pacific countries. This is the conclusion of a new study commissioned by the European Parliament. The International Chemical Secretariat (Chemsec) has, together with a research team with members from US, France and South Africa, conducted a study on the impacts of REACH on African, Caribbean, and Pacific countries (ACP). The report lists and analyzes mineral and chemical exports from ACP countries to Europe that could potentially be affected by REACH. Most exports from ACP to EU are not subject to REACH; most of the exports that are affected by REACH are a few mining products, exported in huge volume. South Africa alone represents almost two-thirds of REACH exports by value. A total of seven ACP countries, including South Africa, have REACH exports that are greater than 2 percent of GDP.

- "The study shows that no significant economic disruption will be caused by REACH to the ACP countries. However, to help countries to comply with REACH, we are suggesting certain measures" says Anne-Sofie Andersson, coordinator of the study at the International Chemical Secretariat.

Pressrelease

Contact the European Parliament regarding a paper copy of the report