South Korea secures Vice Chair position on OECD Chemicals and Biotechnology Committee

Jung Kyung-hwa, Director of the Chemical Substances Policy Division at the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment, has been appointed as Vice Chair of the OECD Chemicals and Biotechnology Committee (CBC). The three-year term began on October 29 in France.

The CBC is one of 33 specialized committees under the OECD. It plays a critical role in coordinating chemical substance management policies among member and non-member nations and establishing international standards, such as Test Guidelines (TGs). A key function of the committee is managing the Mutual Acceptance of Data (MAD) agreement, which allows member nations to recognize each other's chemical safety data. This system reduces redundant testing and animal testing, resulting in an estimated annual global cost saving of 410 million euros.

Jung brings extensive expertise to the role, having previously served as a policy analyst at the OECD Secretariat. The Ministry stated it intends to use this leadership position to actively participate in international discussions and ensure South Korean perspectives are reflected in global chemical safety regulations.