1. REACH and RoHS: The Passport for the Global Footwear Industry

In the era of sustainable production, exporting footwear to premium markets like the EU, USA, and Japan requires strict adherence to chemical safety standards. Among these, REACH and RoHS are the two most critical certifications that every footwear accessory manufacturer must master.

Non-compliance does not only risk product recalls and heavy fines at customs but also severely damages a brand's reputation in the international supply chain.

2. What is REACH? Application in Footwear Accessories

REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) is a European Union regulation established to protect human health and the environment from chemical risks.

• Scope: Applies to every component of a shoe: from tanned leather and textiles to plastic outsoles, adhesives, and metal trims.
• SVHC List: Manufacturers must ensure that Substances of Very High Concern do not exceed 0.1% by weight in any product.
• Examples: REACH strictly monitors substances like $Cr^{6+}$ (Hexavalent Chromium) in leather tanning or Organotin compounds in plastic components.

3. What is RoHS? Why is it Relevant to Footwear?

It is a common misconception that RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) only applies to consumer electronics. However, for modern footwear, RoHS is mandatory when:

• The product features electronic components (LED lights, smart sensors, or tracking chips).
• The product includes electroplated metal parts (zippers, eyelets, or metal logos).

RoHS restricts 10 specific hazardous substances, most notably Lead (Pb), Mercury (Hg), Cadmium (Cd), and plastic softeners known as Phthalates.

4. Quick Comparison: REACH vs. RoHS

5. The Vital Importance of Using Certified Raw Materials

Utilizing compliant materials from the start helps manufacturers:

1. Reduce Costs: Avoid expensive re-testing or the risk of mass shipments being rejected.
2. Accelerate Production: Meet the Restricted Substances List (RSL) requirements of major global brands like Nike, Adidas, and Puma.
3. Protect Worker Health: Minimize occupational health risks associated with toxic chemical exposure in the factory.

6. JM – Your Trusted Partner for REACH & RoHS Compliant Materials

Understanding the challenges faced by manufacturers, JM is proud to be a strategic partner providing Clean material solutions that meet the latest international standards.

Solutions Provided by JM:

• Adhesives & Solvents: We offer Water-based adhesives as an eco-friendly alternative to oil-based glues, free from Benzene and Toluene, and fully REACH compliant.
• Leather Chemicals: Azo-free dyes and tanning auxiliaries with ultra-low Formaldehyde levels.
• Synthetic Materials (TPU/EVA): RoHS-certified resins free from endocrine-disrupting Phthalates.
• Anti-molding Agents & Additives: Completely safe for end-users, including infant footwear.

The JM Commitment:

• Full COA (Certificate of Analysis) provided for every shipment.
• Proactive updates on the latest SVHC lists from the EU to advise our clients.
• On-site technical support to help factories optimize their production formulas for Green certification.

7. Conclusion

In the age of green manufacturing, REACH and RoHS are no longer barriers—they are opportunities for footwear accessory manufacturers to elevate their market position. Partnering with a reputable supplier like JM ensures peace of mind as you expand into the world’s most demanding markets.

Do you need a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) or a compliance report for a specific accessory?

👉 Contact JM today for a comprehensive consultation with our technical experts!

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