Hazardous Chemicals

Hazardous Chemical Import Agency

Hazardous Chemicals Import Agency

Purple Ocean International Co., Ltd. is a specialized hazardous chemical import agency, safely handling the entire import process — from advance review through import declaration, customs clearance, and post-management — in compliance with the Chemicals Control Act and the Act on Registration and Evaluation of Chemical Substances (K-REACH).

Hazardous chemical import is a highly complex field — far beyond simple customs clearance. It requires substance classification → import feasibility determination → declaration and registration → engagement with regulatory authorities. Drawing on over 30 years of trade and logistics expertise, we proactively eliminate the risks of customs clearance holds, administrative fines, and criminal liability.

In particular, we specialize in hazardous chemical import agency tailored for industrial raw materials, research reagents, process chemicals, additives, solvents, and other needs of companies, research institutions, and large conglomerates.

Chemical Import
  • Advance determination of whether substances qualify as hazardous chemicals
  • Review of K-REACH registration and declaration requirements
  • Import declaration under the Chemicals Control Act and engagement with the Ministry of Environment
  • MSDS (GHS) review, translation, and compliance verification
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1Are all hazardous chemicals impossible to import?

No. Even hazardous chemicals can be legally imported if the required declaration, permit, and registration conditions are met. The problem is that proceeding without advance review can result in customs clearance holds or administrative penalties.

Q2What is the most important advance procedure for importing chemicals?

Determining whether the substance falls under K-REACH and whether the Chemicals Control Act applies is the most critical step. Import feasibility is determined at the substance classification stage.

Q3Can import proceed immediately if an MSDS is available?

No. The MSDS must be reviewed for compliance with Korea's GHS standards and translated into Korean. If the actual substance ingredients do not match, import may be restricted.

Q4Are regulations also applied to research-purpose or small-volume chemicals?

Yes. Even research or testing-purpose chemicals may fall under the Chemicals Control Act. However, the possibility of relaxed requirements or exceptions can be determined through advance review.

Q5Why is it necessary to entrust hazardous chemical import to specialists?

Hazardous chemicals carry risks of administrative fines, criminal penalties, and import bans. Using a specialist import agency to secure regulatory compliance, institutional communication, and customs clearance stability is essential.

Classification

Hazardous Chemicals under the Chemicals Control Act

Toxic Substances

Substances that are toxic or harmful to humans

Restricted Substances

Substances subject to enhanced handling standards

Prohibited Substances

Substances whose use is prohibited

Accident-Preparedness Substances

Substances that may cause accidents if released and require preparedness measures (e.g., chlorine, ammonia, sulfuric acid)

Permitted Substances

Substances that can only be handled after obtaining a permit for specific designated uses

Everyday Examples

Hazardous Chemicals in Everyday Life

Paints and adhesivesToluene, 1,4-dioxane, formaldehyde, etc.
Moth repellentsNaphthalene, 1,4-dichlorobenzene
InsecticidesCypermethrin, permethrin, etc.
Cleaning agents and disinfectantsHydrogen peroxide, chlorine-based substances
Industrial Applications

Hazardous Chemicals in Industrial Settings

Organic chemicalsBenzene, glutaraldehyde, nitrobenzene
MetalsMercury, nickel and its compounds, antimony and its compounds
Acids and alkalisSulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, sodium hydroxide, ammonia solution