Japan’s cabinet has approved a revision to a government ordinance, officially banning the manufacture, import, and export of all general lighting fluorescent lamps by the end of 2027.
The move aligns with the international effort to curb mercury pollution, following last year’s agreement under a global convention to halt the production and trade of fluorescent lamps due to their mercury content, which poses significant health risks.
The ban will be enforced in stages, with incandescent fluorescent lamps facing restrictions from January 2026, compact fluorescent lamps from January 2027, and the most widely used types, such as straight tubular and circular fluorescent lamps, ceasing production and trade by January 2028.
Mercury, commonly used in products such as fluorescent lamps, thermometers, and batteries, is a hazardous substance. Exposure to high levels of mercury can cause long-term or permanent health issues, underscoring the urgency of this measure.
Leading Japanese manufacturers, including Panasonic, have already announced plans to halt fluorescent lamp production by September 2027, ensuring compliance with the impending regulations. The phased approach aims to minimise disruptions while addressing a critical environmental and public health concern.
GLOBAL ROUNDUP | Yiwu’s Christmas Exports Surge with Innovation and Global Demand Growth
