Sweden Plans SVHC Proposal for 4,4'-Methylenediphenol

Sweden plans to propose 4,4'-methylenediphenol (EC 210-658-2, CAS 620-92-8) as a substance of very high concern (SVHC) under REACH, based on its toxicity for reproduction. ECHA announced the intention in its weekly update of 30 September 2026.

This is an early step in the regulatory process, not an addition to the Candidate List. The announcement does not introduce new Candidate List obligations for companies.

What happens next?

Sweden will need to submit a dossier explaining why the substance meets the SVHC criteria. The proposal will then be opened for consultation, allowing stakeholders to comment on the substance’s identity and hazard properties and provide information on uses, exposure and alternatives.

Following the consultation, the proposal and any comments will be considered under the REACH identification procedure. If the substance is formally identified as an SVHC, it will be added to the Candidate List.

What does this mean for suppliers?

Candidate List inclusion can trigger information requirements for substances, mixtures and articles. Suppliers of articles containing a listed substance above 0.1% by weight must provide their business customers with sufficient information for safe use, including at least the substance name. SCIP notification requirements may also apply.

An intention alone does not trigger those duties. It does, however, give companies time to check whether the substance is present in their products and request any missing composition information from suppliers before a possible listing.

Sources: ECHA Weekly, 30 September 2026 ; Registry of SVHC intentions ; Candidate List obligations .