Proposed Restriction of Three POP Chemicals in New Zealand
BAAR, SWITZERLAND / AGILITYPR.NEWS / April 09, 2026 / SGS, the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 045.26, outlining New Zealand’s plans to restrict three persistent organic pollutant (POP) chemicals, in line with recent changes to the Stockholm Convention.
In May 2025, three chemicals were added to Annex A (Elimination) of the Convention, subject to specific exemptions:
- Chlorpyrifos
- Medium-chain chlorinated paraffins
- Long-chain perfluorocarboxylic acids, their salts and related compounds (LC-PFCAs)
New Zealand meets its obligations under the Convention through its Hazardous Substances and New Organisms (HSNO) Act 1996. The consultation on the proposed restriction of the three chemicals was opened in March 2026 by the New Zealand Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), known in Māori as Te Mana Rauhi Taiao. The proposed restrictions and prohibitions would be incorporated into Schedules 1AA and 2A of the HSNO Act.
Feedback is also being sought on the amended listing of UV‑328 in Annex A of the Convention, including a specific amendment related to aircraft. Comments will be accepted until April 17, 2026.
SGS experts publish SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed about regulatory developments that may impact their businesses. SafeGuardS 045.26 includes a practical summary table highlighting key descriptions and uses of the three relevant POP chemicals.
Stakeholders are encouraged to consult the full SafeGuardS 045.26 for additional details and regulatory context.
SGS chemical testing
SGS offers a comprehensive range of testing services to help manufacturers and suppliers ensure their products are safe and comply with national and international regulations concerning harmful chemicals. In the end, it’s only trusted because it’s tested. Learn more about SGS chemical testing services.
SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full New Zealand Proposes Restriction on Three POP Chemicals SafeGuardS.
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For further information, contact:
Dr. HingWo Tsang
Global Information and Innovation Manager
Tel: +852 2774 7420
Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines
LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
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