France Introduces New PFAS Restrictions – Effective January 2026

France has issued Decree No. 2025‑1376 (28 December 2025) introducing strict controls on perfluoroalkylated and polyfluoroalkylated substances (PFAS), aiming to reduce environmental and health risks from these persistent chemicals. The new rules impact a wide range of consumer and industrial products, including textiles, footwear, cosmetics, waterproofing agents, and certain industrial materials.

Key Requirements

• Scope: All products placed on the French market containing PFAS are subject to limits, with PFAS defined as fully fluorinated carbon chains without hydrogen, chlorine, bromine, or iodine.

• PFAS Limits for Compliance:

  • Individual PFAS: ≤25 ppb

  • Total measured PFAS: ≤250 ppb

  • PFAS including polymers: ≤50 ppm

• Exemptions: Certain products are allowed under specific conditions:

  • Protective equipment regulated under EU standards (Regulation 2016/425)

  • Re‑impregnation products for protective gear

  • Products containing ≥20% recycled content, with PFAS levels proportional to recycled materials

  • Technical or industrial textiles where no PFAS‑free alternative exists

Implementation & Transition

• Effective Date: 1 January 2026

• Transitional Provision: Products manufactured before this date may continue to be marketed or exported for 12 months; after that, all products must fully comply.

Who Must Comply

• Manufacturers, importers, exporters, and distributors are responsible for ensuring that products meet these limits.

• Regulatory authorities will monitor compliance and enforce the restrictions.

Implications for Business:

• Companies in affected industries need to review product formulations, check suppliers, and adjust supply chains to meet PFAS thresholds before the January 2026 deadline. Non-compliant products risk removal from the market and regulatory penalties.