Draft legislation on the safe management of chemical substances is being discussed with business entities.
Establishing a legislative framework for the safe management of chemical substances is an important step towards fulfilling the international obligations undertaken by the Republic of Armenia. It also stems from commitments set out in the Government Programme of the Republic of Armenia and the EU-Armenia Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
In cooperation with the Ministry of Environment and the American University of Armenia, a package of draft laws has been developed on the safe management of chemical substances and the import and export of hazardous chemicals regulated under the Rotterdam Convention on the Prior Informed Consent Procedure for Certain Hazardous Chemicals and Pesticides in International Trade. An in-depth Regulatory Impact Assessment (RIA) has also been conducted.
The first public consultation on the proposed regulations took place on 22 October, with the participation of business entities involved in the import and export of hazardous chemicals, including major importers and manufacturers in the pharmaceutical sector. During the meeting, participants presented their proposals and comments, discussed practical aspects of implementing the proposed regulations and received relevant clarifications.
Discussions will also continue with other groups of economic operators to ensure the participation of all interested and affected parties in further developing the legislative framework for the safe management of chemical substances.