Effective January 7, 2026, the Department of the Environment (DOE) initiated the phased rollout of the Environmental Protection (Ozone Layer Protection) Regulations, 2025 (SI No. 95 of 2025). This initial phase establishes updated import protocols for the logistics, retail, and appliance/electronics sectors regarding refrigerants and cooling equipment.

Commercial Import Requirements:

Commercial entities importing controlled substances (like HCFCs and HFCs) or refrigerant-based equipment must now follow a two-step process:

• Mandatory Registration: Importers are required to register with the Chief Environmental Officer. This process incurs a non-refundable fee of BZ $1,000.00.
• Transaction Licensing: Following registration, a specific license is required for every import or export transaction, processed via the Online Permit & Application Licensing (OPAL) System.

The importation of the following items remains prohibited:

• Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)
• 1,1-dichloro-1-fluoroethane (R-141b)
• Equipment containing Chlorodifluoromethane (R-22)

Distinction for Personal Imports:

A separate process applies to personal imports. Individuals importing up to two units per year for household use (e.g., home refrigerators or ACs) are subject to a simplified exemption letter which is accompanied by a BZ $25.00 fee.

Timeline:

The transition period for this initial phase is currently active. Full enforcement of these regulations is scheduled to take effect by April 2026 (within three months of the this first phase). Importers are advised to contact the DOE to begin the registration process. DOE press releases can be found on the DOE’s official Facebook page, as can the official press release referenced in this article.