As reported in the July 2, 2026, Regulatory Essentials, Health Canada has invited stakeholders to participate in a survey on engagement with the Global Framework on Chemicals (GFC), the international framework adopted in 2023 to guide the sound management of chemicals and waste worldwide.
This consultation presents an important opportunity to help shape Canada’s position on emerging global chemicals management priorities. The survey will help inform Canada’s approach to the framework and support preparations for the First International Conference (IC1), scheduled for November 2026 in Geneva, as well as Canada’s participation in broader international chemicals management discussions.
Health Canada is seeking feedback on which targets stakeholders consider most important and where they believe Canada can make meaningful contributions. Respondents are invited to share priorities, provide examples of existing initiatives, and identify areas where additional action may be needed. The survey also seeks input on several existing Issues of Concern (IOCs), including chemicals in products, hazardous substances in electronics, highly hazardous pesticides, endocrine-disrupting chemicals, lead in paint, nanomaterials, PFAS, and environmentally persistent pharmaceutical pollutants. Stakeholders may also propose additional issues and recommend actions for consideration under the framework.
In addition, Health Canada is inviting interested parties to participate in future engagement activities, including informational sessions, informal working groups, and pilot initiatives on topics such as transparency, occupational health and safety, and green chemistry innovation. Feedback from this consultation will help inform Canada’s implementation of the GFC and identify future engagement opportunities.
The survey is intended for Canadian governments, organizations, and groups and can be accessed through the Global Framework on Chemicals Survey. Responses are requested by August 5, 2026.
Cosmetics Alliance Canada encourages members to participate in the survey to help ensure that the expertise and perspectives of Canada’s cosmetics industry are reflected in Health Canada’s engagement on this global initiative. For more information or questions regarding the survey, please contact hip-phi@hc-sc.gc.ca. Members may also contact the CA Regulatory Team at regulatory@cosmeticsalliance.ca.
