The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) of New Zealand has updated its regulatory requirements for businesses that import or manufacture hazardous substances. According to the consolidated Hazardous Substances (Importers and Manufacturers) Notice 2015, with amendments effective from 1 January 2026, all companies handling hazardous chemicals must register key business and product information and submit annual reports on substance quantities. 

New Reporting Requirements for Hazardous Substance Importers and Manufacturers in New Zealand 

The revised notice requires all importers and manufacturers of hazardous substances to submit detailed business information to EPA. This includes their 

• New Zealand Business Number (NZBN) 

• Registered address and contact person 

• Company website (if applicable) 

• All relevant HSNO approval numbers or group standard titles for each hazardous substance they handle.  

These updates are intended to enhance traceability and improve regulatory oversight of hazardous materials in New Zealand. 

Companies must submit this information within 30 days of first importing or manufacturing a hazardous substance. Any changes, such as a new contact person or updated approvals, must also be reported within 30 days. This system allows EPA to maintain a real-time, accurate register of hazardous substances used or introduced into the New Zealand market. 

Annual Reporting of Hazardous Chemicals Now Mandatory 

Beginning with the 2025 calendar year, manufacturers and importers will be required to file annual reports by 31 May each year. These reports must include the total quantities of specified identified substances, including agrichemicals, antifouling agents, timber treatment chemicals, and certain veterinary medicines. The new reporting requirements also applies to explosives manufacturers, who must report the volumes of explosive substances and related components handled during the previous year. 

Additional Requirements for Explosives Importers 

Businesses importing explosive materials must comply with even stricter obligations. This includes providing advance shipment information, securing an import certificate, and ensuring materials meet approved standards. These safeguards are intended to reduce the risk of misuse and ensure that national safety and environmental standards are met. 

Why These EPA Regulations Matter 

The new EPA rules enhance the oversight of hazardous substances in New Zealand, thereby reinforcing the country’s commitments to environmental protection, chemical safety, and workplace health. By requiring more accurate and timely reporting, EPA will be better equipped to assess environmental risks, improve regulatory enforcement, and develop data-driven policies. 

These updates also position New Zealand alongside other global leaders in chemical regulation and promote safer industrial practices for hazardous materials. Improved data collection also allows for more responsive intervention in case of chemical incidents or non-compliance. 

Key Compliance Deadlines and Business Impact 

• 1 January 2026: The new consolidated EPA Notice takes effect. 
   

• 31 May 2026: First annual reports are due, covering activities from 2025. 
   

• Ongoing: All first-time importers/manufacturers must register within 30 days. 
   

Failure to comply with these updated requirements may result in penalties or enforcement actions under the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms (HSNO) Act. Businesses are urged to review their internal systems and ensure that they can provide EPA with the required records, test data, and accurate quantity reports in a timely manner. 

How to Comply with the EPA Importers and Manufacturers Notice 

Businesses can visit the EPA’s official website to access: 

• The full consolidated notice document 
   

• Compliance guidelines and reporting templates 
   

• A searchable group standards database for substance classification 
   

• Walkthroughs for hazardous substance registration and annual reporting 

This regulatory update underscores EPA’s commitment to improving chemical safety standards across New Zealand. Companies involved in the importation, manufacturing, or distribution of chemicals should begin compliance preparation immediately.