F-Gas Regulation (EU) 2024/573
Complete Guide to All Changes & Obligations
In force since 11 March 2024
Important for all importers & exporters of F-Gas-containing shipments!
The new F-Gas Regulation has been in force since 11 March 2024.
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What's New Since 11 March 2024?
The new F-Gas Regulation (EU) 2024/573 replaces the previous Regulation (EU) No 517/2014 and significantly tightens requirements. The aim is a drastic reduction of fluorinated greenhouse gases to protect the climate.
Phase-Down Tightened
Stricter quantity limits for HFCs (R134a, R410A, R407C, R32, R1234yf, R404A, R22). Permitted quantities will continuously decrease until 2050.
More Documentation
Extended labelling and reporting obligations for all market participants. Annual BDR reports are mandatory.
Registration Mandatory
Stricter portal requirements before any import/export activity. Without registration, customs clearance is not possible.
More Controls
Intensified monitoring by national authorities. Violations are penalised with substantial fines.
The Most Important Changes at a Glance
- Registration in the EU F-Gas Portal is mandatory
- HFC imports only possible with quota authorisation
- Annual reporting (BDR) is compulsory
- Tightened quantity limits (phase-down)
- Extended labelling obligations for products
- Intensified controls and higher fines
Who Is Affected?
Legal Basis
Article 17(1)(a) Regulation (EU) 2024/573:
"Undertakings that import or export fluorinated greenhouse gases in quantities of one tonne CO₂ equivalent or more, or products and equipment containing or relying on such gases [...] shall register."
Exception: Temporary storage pursuant to Art. 5(17) Regulation (EU) 952/2013 (Union Customs Code)
Importers
Companies that import F-Gas-containing equipment or components into the EU and are subject to customs procedures for release into free circulation.
Examples:
- Vehicle importers with air conditioning
- Importers of refrigeration equipment
- Air conditioning system traders
Exporters
Exporters of F-Gas-containing products such as vehicles or air conditioning systems to third countries outside the EU.
Examples:
- Vehicle exporters
- Exporters of refrigeration units
- Climate equipment traders
Manufacturers
Refrigeration and air conditioning manufacturers that produce or place on the market equipment or systems containing F-Gases.
Examples:
- Air conditioning manufacturers
- Refrigeration equipment producers
- Heat pump manufacturers
Products Subject to Registration
The following products are subject to the registration obligation upon import or export:
Vehicles
Refrigeration & Air Conditioning
Industrial
Other
Important: This list is not exhaustive. If you are unsure whether your product is affected, contact us for a free initial assessment.
Timeline & Key Deadlines
Entry into Force
The new F-Gas Regulation (EU) 2024/573 enters into force
Registration Obligation
All importers/exporters must be registered
First BDR Report
Annual report for 2024 must be submitted
Continuous Tightening
Phase-down continues, quotas become increasingly scarce
Pay attention to critical deadlines!
Plan sufficient lead time! Registration can take 1–2 weeks. Importing without valid registration leads to customs problems and fines.
Fines & Penalties for Violations
Violations of the F-Gas Regulation are penalised by national authorities with substantial fines:
| Severity | Fine | Violation |
|---|---|---|
| Low | €500 – €2,000 | Late reporting, missing documentation |
| Medium | €2,000 – €10,000 | Missing registration, incomplete information |
| High | €10,000 – €50,000 | Import without quotas, repeated violations |
| Very High | €50,000+ | Systematic violations, fraud, circumvention of the regulation |
Additional Consequences:
- Confiscation of goods by customs authorities
- Revocation of portal registration
- Entry into sanctions lists
- Criminal prosecution for systematic violations
- Reputational damage and business disruptions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need to register if I only import or export once?
Yes, the registration obligation applies regardless of frequency. Even for a single import or export, you must be registered in the EU F-Gas Portal before the goods can be cleared through customs.
What happens if I import without registration?
Without a valid portal registration, goods will not be cleared at customs. Substantial fines are also imposed. Registration must take place BEFORE the import.
Which F-Gases are affected by the phase-down?
Mainly hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) such as R134a, R410A, R407C, R32, R404A and R1234yf. The permitted quantities will be continuously reduced until 2050.
Do I need quotas for all F-Gas imports?
No, quotas are only required for HFCs (hydrofluorocarbons). Other F-Gases such as perfluorocarbons or SF6 are quota-free but are still subject to the registration obligation.
How long does registration in the F-Gas Portal take?
Initial registration can take 1–2 weeks depending on the completeness of the documents. Plan sufficient lead time before your first import.
Must I submit annual reports?
Yes, all registered importers must submit an annual report (BDR) on their imported F-Gas quantities by 31 March of the following year.
What do violations of the F-Gas Regulation cost?
Fines can range from several thousand to tens of thousands of euros depending on the violation. In addition, goods can be confiscated and authorisations revoked.
Does the regulation also apply to pre-charged equipment?
Yes, equipment that is already charged with F-Gases (e.g. air conditioning in vehicles) is also subject to the registration and quota obligation upon import.
Official Documents & Links
Need Support?
We help you with F-Gas registration, quota management and annual reporting
More F-Gas Services
Professional F-Gas compliance from a single source – from registration to reporting
Registration
Fast and legally compliant registration in the official EU F-Gas Portal
Quota Management
HFC quotas from our own stock – fast supply within 1–3 working days
Reporting
Timely preparation and submission of annual F-Gas reports
Consulting & Compliance
Individual consulting on all requirements of the F-Gas Regulation
Customs Services
Complete customs handling for import and export of F-Gas products