The formal discussions to restrict lead in ammunition continue within the EU REACH Committee, which is composed of Member State representatives and chaired by the European Commission. The latest meeting was held on 22–23 October 2025 to discuss the Commission’s legal proposal (see the agenda).

According to the official summary report, the Commission presented a revised approach that separates the restriction on lead in ammunition from the restriction on lead in fishing tackle. While the fishing-tackle proposal received widespread support, the ammunition issue revealed persistent divisions among Member States, especially regarding the feasibility of the proposed transitional periods and concerns about Europe’s defence sector. This highlights the ongoing complexity of this issue, which must reconcile environmental and human health objectives with socio-economic impacts and concerns about practical implementation across Europe.

Discussions will resume at the December REACH Committee meeting, where the restriction on lead ammunition is once again on the agenda. FACE continues to monitor this process closely, as it remains a significant regulatory issue impacting Europe’s 7 million hunters.

Finally, the topic continues to draw increasing attention from Members of the European Parliament. This recent event, chaired by MEP Riho Terras, attracted a large crowd and offered insight into how the European Commission and stakeholders view the issue – PR available here.