RoHS and REACH Update: What Should Neodymium Magnet Buyers Know?

     When sourcing magnets for international trade, focusing solely on price and performance is no longer enough. Environmental compliance has become a key requirement, especially in markets like the European Union. Two major regulations—RoHS (Restriction of the Use of Certain Hazardous Substances) and REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals)—impose strict requirements on the materials and coatings used in products, including rare earth neodymium magnets. Non-compliance can result in shipment delays, customs rejections, and even fines for distributors and retailers.

RoHS: Control of Hazardous Substances

     The RoHS Directive restricts the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment. For magnets, concerns often focus on coatings and adhesives that may contain the following restricted elements:

• Lead (Pb)
• Cadmium (Cd)
• Mercury (Hg)
• Hexavalent Chromium (Cr6+)

     RoHS-compliant magnets must be manufactured and coated to ensure that the levels of these substances are below permitted limits. For example, older electroplating methods sometimes use hexavalent chromium, but neodymium magnets with Ni-Cu-Ni coating or epoxy coating have been developed to comply with the RoHS Directive.

REACH: A Broader Chemical Regulation

     While RoHS targets specific substances, REACH goes further, requiring manufacturers and importers to register and control the use of thousands of chemical substances. For magnets, this typically involves:

• Coating materials and adhesives.
• Anti-corrosion surface treatments.
• Potential substances of very high concern (SVHCs) identified by the EU.

     Buyers need to ensure their suppliers provide REACH declarations confirming that the product does not contain any SVHCs (substances of very high concern) above permitted thresholds.

Practical Steps for Buyers 

     If you are importing magnets into the EU, follow these basic steps:

1. Before purchasing, request a certificate of conformity (RoHS and REACH) from your supplier.
2. Verify test reports from accredited third-party laboratories, not just internal declarations.
3. Plan ahead for updates—the EU regularly revises its restricted substances list.
4. Work with experienced, compliant manufacturers with robust compliance systems.

Conclusion: Compliance Protects Your Business

     Stay current on RoHS and REACH requirements not only to meet legal obligations but also to build trust with customers. By working with compliant suppliers and verifying relevant documentation, buyers can avoid costly delays and confidently bring magnets to the European market.