You will be speaking at the Global Food Contact conference, Prague on Japan's FCM Regulations Unveiled: Positive List Revisions and Compliance Best Practices. Can you share some key points from your presentation?

My presentation will highlight the key changes in Japan's Positive List (PL) system, including updates to its structure, scope, and substance classifications compared to the previous version. I will guide the audience through these revisions, addressing their practical implications for industry stakeholders. Additionally, I will discuss the major challenges businesses face in ensuring compliance and provide strategic approaches to navigating the evolving regulatory landscape in Japan.

What are the key challenges companies face when transitioning from the previous regulatory framework to the new Positive List system?

The transition to the Positive List system presents several challenges for businesses, including:

• Language Barrier: Most regulatory documents are only available in Japanese, making it difficult for overseas companies to fully understand the requirements.
• Positive List Verification: The structure and scope of Japan's PL differ from those of other major markets, making it challenging to determine whether specific materials comply with the new system.
• Supply Chain Communications & Management: Ensuring compliance requires effective collaboration with suppliers, but obtaining the necessary information across supply chains remains a significant challenge.

What are you most looking forward to at this year's Global Food Contact conference?

I am looking forward to engaging in discussions on industry challenges and explore compliance solutions with fellow speakers and participants. Additionally, I look forward to gaining insights into how industries are adapting to the rapidly evolving regulatory landscape, particularly concerning emerging topics such as BPA restrictions, PFAS regulations, and sustainability initiatives.