CECE Technical Week June 2026: Advancing alignment across digital, environmental and machinery frameworks

The PT 3R meeting addressed a broad environmental agenda, beginning with the Environmental Omnibus (Omnibus VIII). Discussions focused on targeted amendments to the Batteries Regulation, the evolving framework for harmonisation of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) at EU level under the upcoming Circular Economy Act, and latest updates on the discontinuation of the SCIP database. Members were informed that the activities on the EPR-related proposals of the package have been discontinued in Council, while negotiations on remaining files continue. On the Batteries Regulation, discussions centered on the next steps for the Battery Passport, with its application expected from February 2027. Members underlined the need for clarity regarding data requirements and implementation conditions, while continuing to advocate for sufficient preparation time. Regarding chemicals, members were informed that CECE has submitted its response to the SEAC draft opinion on the future PFAS restriction proposal under REACH and will now step up engagement with the European Commission in view of the upcoming legislative proposal. Finally, discussions on the ESPR focused on the iron and steel products requirements, including the ongoing consultation process on the related expected delegated act (expected by end 2026-mid 2027). 

The PT Data meeting focused on the Digital Omnibus package, addressing its implications across data, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Members exchanged views on the ongoing implementation of the Cyber Resilience Act (CRA), with particular attention to the new sections of the Commission’s draft CRA guidelines. In addition, experts exchanged views on the need for sector-specific clarifications, including on support periods and compliance expectations, and next steps for developing industry guidance for CRA implementation. Discussions also covered AI policy developments, notably the implementation of high-risk AI requirements under the AI Act and latest changes introduced in the Machinery Regulation (Articles 8 and 20) as part of the AI Omnibus. Members emphasised the importance of consistent Commission guidelines to ensure a coherent interpretation of overlapping digital rules, while avoiding duplication and additional administrative burden. 

The PT Machinery meeting mainly focused on the implementation of the Machinery Regulation (MR), the associated standardisation activities and the recent initiative on Omnibus IV. Members reviewed the ongoing work on the MR Guide to Application, including progress on digital documentation, ergonomics and contact with overhead power lines, where CECE continues to actively contribute both to the development of industry interpretations and to the work carried out within the relevant subgroups. The PT also discussed the state of play regarding the implementation of the cyber-related requirements (art. 1.1.9 and 1.2.1 of the MR), and thus the ongoing CECE and national advocacy efforts aimed at avoiding unnecessary double costs for manufacturers should the MR and CRA implementation timelines remain misaligned. Furthermore, members welcomed the positive outcome of the Omnibus IV negotiations, which also reflect the intensive advocacy efforts undertaken by CECE. While the final legal text has not yet been formally published, the group strongly welcomed the expected introduction of a 30-month transitional period for mandatory digital declarations of conformity, the acceptance of a flexible landing-page approach for direct access to documentation, and the improvements made to the EC/EP's proposals on common specifications. Finally, an update was provided on standardisation activities, notably the upcoming publication of the final harmonised standards under the Machinery Directive and the first listings under the MR in autumn, as well as the EC’s approach to gap analyses and the re-citation of standards with restrictions where necessary. 

The Technical Commission meeting concluded the Technical Week by reviewing key outcomes and aligning priorities for the coming months. Members discussed cross-cutting regulatory developments and reinforced the importance of ensuring coherence between digital, environmental and product legislation. As part of the regular agenda, members received a post-Brexit update, highlighting ongoing developments in the UK regulatory framework and reiterating the importance of maintaining EU–UK alignment, particularly in areas such as standardisation and product requirements. 

The TC meeting featured two guest presentations. Drivesec, an innovative cybersecurity company founded in 2017 focusing on IoT security solutions, presented its security compliance tools and introduced the Crator platform to CECE members, designed to support manufacturers in meeting emerging cybersecurity requirements. 

In addition, Stéphanie Mittelham, Senior Manager for Green Transition at Orgalim, delivered a presentation on the latest EU developments related to the green aspects of the Digital Product Passport (DPP). She provided an overview of the regulatory framework, implementation challenges and industry implications, highlighting the need for interoperable systems and manageable data requirements to avoid unnecessary administrative burden. 

The next CECE Technical Week will take place in Brussels from 21^st to 24^th September 2026.