Canada publishes new regulation prohibiting certain toxic substances

The Canadian government strengthens its regulatory framework with the entry into force of the “Prohibition of Certain Toxic Substances Regulations, 2025,” expanding restrictions on chemical compounds that pose risks to health and the environment.

On December 31, 2025, the Government of Canada published in the Canada Gazette, Part II (Vol. 159, No. 27) the regulation Prohibition of Certain Toxic Substances Regulations, 2025 (SOR/2025-270). This regulation will replace the previous Prohibition of Certain Toxic Substances Regulations, 2012 when it comes into effect on June 30, 2026, six months after its publication.

The purpose of the regulation is to prohibit the manufacture, use, sale, offer for sale, and import of certain toxic substances and products containing them. Among the substances affected are compounds such as hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD), perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), and other contaminants recognized for their environmental impact and health risks.

The substances included in the regulation can be consulted through the Substance Search Tool, where they are linked to various Chemical Abstracts Service Registry Numbers (CAS RN) that identify them. It is important to note that the regulation applies whenever a substance meets the defined criteria, even if a specific CAS RN does not appear in the tool.

Implications for businesses

Companies exporting chemical products or articles that may contain these substances to Canada must review their processes and ensure compliance before the effective date. The regulation includes certain exemptions, such as specific uses in research, critical applications, or goods in transit, always under regulated conditions.

At Siam, we provide tools that make it easier to comply with regulatory requirements in Canada.

Chemeter incorporates the provisions of the Prohibition of Certain Toxic Substances Regulations, 2025, enabling the creation of accurate and up to date documentation to ensure that products meet the applicable Canadian legislation.

The complete list of prohibited substances, associated CAS numbers, and detailed exemptions can be found in the official source.