Regulation
REACH
Navigating Global Chemical Regulations in the Bullion Market
Overview
REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) is a regulatory framework designed to protect human health and the environment from risks posed by chemical substances. While REACH originated in the European Union (EC 1907/2006), similar frameworks have since been adopted or proposed in other key jurisdictions: UK REACH, established post-Brexit, mirrors EU REACH but is administered separately by the UK’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Additionally, Turkey (KKDIK), South Korea (K-REACH), China (MEE Order No. 12), and India have also adopted similar frameworks, with REACH-style frameworks are also under development or in place in Japan, the USA, and Brazil, among others.
For bullion market participants, these regulations can affect how precious metals are classified and reported when entering various markets, triggering registration, notification, or documentation requirements.
LBMA supports Members and Good Delivery List refiners in understanding and complying with REACH requirements by providing guidance, updates, and direct engagement with regulators.
LBMA Resources & Guidance
To support your compliance efforts, LBMA offers the following resources:
Updates
- LBMA Accredited Stakeholder Application to HSE - June 2022 - Summary of LBMA’s role in representing market participants under UK REACH.
- UK REACH Obligations Explained - October 2021 - What market participants need to do under UK REACH.
Practical Guidance
- Checklist: What LBMA Members Need to Know and Do - A step-by-step compliance checklist for REACH obligations.
- UK REACH: Getting Identified and Installed - A practical guide to registering with the HSE.
- UK REACH: Submitting a DUIN - Explanation of the DUIN process and requirements.
Policy & Advocacy
LBMA's official positions, in collaboration with the EPMF, on the treatment of precious metals under REACH.
- Position Paper: Gold Investment Products (2010)
- Position Paper: Silver Investment Products (2018)
- Position Paper: Platinum and Palladium Investment Products (2018)
Archive of Regulatory Updates
- Regulation Update - February 2018
- REACH Updates - June 2018, December 2017, October 2017
- Presentation: Regulation Update - October 2017
Still Have Questions?
For further support on REACH compliance, please contact LBMA Compliance Team at compliance@lbma.org.uk