Event Recap: Dublin Chamber x CIRS Seminar – Navigating Compliance in a Changing Regulatory Landscape

On May 28, we were delighted to join forces with the Dublin Chamber to host a highly successful seminar focused on chemical and product compliance. The event attracted ambassadors from many countries to Ireland, representatives of well-known companies, and policy experts to discuss the latest EU regulatory trends and jointly seek compliance solutions. The event was supported by IDA Ireland, Dublin Chamber, and the Dublin Lean Network.

The conference also specially invited Eamonn Flood, a senior expert with more than 30 years of experience in import and export customs clearance and taxation, to share his insights.

Here’s a recap of the key presentations:

?? Customs Compliance – Managing Imports into Ireland

Eamonn Flood, Director at Flood Customs Consulting, delivered a vital session on customs compliance for businesses importing goods into the EU. He clarified duty calculations, documentation requirements, and the real-world risks of non-compliance, including customs audits, penalties, and supply chain disruptions. Eamonn emphasized that under EU law, the importer/exporter bears ultimate responsibility (not the customs agent) and shared practical strategies to remain audit-ready and minimize costs.

?? EU Textile Compliance – What You Need to Know

Adam Hembrecht, Regulatory Consultant at CIRS Europe, delivered an insightful overview of textile compliance requirements across the EU and UK. He covered essential labelling and fibre composition rules, key testing standards (including azo dye and physical testing), and important certifications such as OEKO-TEX®. Adam also addressed the increasing regulatory focus on PFAS ("forever chemicals"), explaining their health risks, environmental persistence, and the upcoming REACH restrictions. This session was crucial for brands and suppliers aiming to stay competitive in the sustainable and compliant textile market.

?? Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) – Key Insights

Bryan Zhou, General Manager, CIRS Europe, provided a thorough exploration of the upcoming EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), set to transform packaging compliance across the EU. Bryan highlighted critical aspects, including waste reduction targets, reuse and refill obligations, enhanced recyclability standards, and stringent new limits on hazardous substances such as PFAS and heavy metals. He also explained the extended producer responsibility framework, harmonized labeling requirements, and key compliance timelines through 2038. This session offered invaluable guidance for manufacturers, retailers, and importers navigating evolving packaging regulations while driving sustainability in the European market.

The event buzzed with energy and excellent engagement throughout. It was fantastic to reconnect with familiar faces and welcome new ones — all united by a shared commitment to smarter, safer compliance.

The event attracted high-level participants, including:

• Former Irish Minister of Commerce and Higher Education
• A representative of the Commercial Office of the Chinese Embassy in Ireland
• Deputy Ambassador of the Pakistani Embassy in Ireland
• The Commercial Counselor of the Egyptian Embassy in Ireland
• A representative from the Saudi Embassy in Ireland

Special thanks to the Dublin Chamber for hosting and to everyone who attended. We look forward to continuing these important conversations and supporting your regulatory goals across Ireland and beyond!

[CIRS presentations are available on request]