The International Federation of Essential Oils and Aroma Trades Ltd (IFEAT) is a globally recognized non-commercial federation representing the essential oils and aroma trades sector. Established to advocate for the interests of producers, traders, and users of essential oils and related natural products, IFEAT covers the entire value chain from farmers to end consumers. Its membership spans over 720 members across 66 countries, encompassing industries such as fragrance, flavor, aromatherapy, and cosmetics. IFEAT’s primary lobbying focus within the European Union revolves around regulatory frameworks affecting essential oils, including chemical safety regulations, classification and labeling rules, and trade-related policies.
IFEAT is actively engaged in shaping EU legislation to ensure a balanced regulatory environment that supports the sustainable use and trade of natural complex substances like essential oils. A key recent success was its collaborative effort with the European Federation of Essential Oils (EFEO) in securing a derogation for natural essential oils under the revised EU Classification, Labelling and Packaging (CLP) Regulation, which provides regulatory clarity and business certainty for the sector. IFEAT commits to ongoing dialogue with EU institutions, providing scientific evidence and policy input to safeguard the industry while maintaining high standards of health and environmental protection.
The federation works closely with affiliated organizations such as EFEO and other industry associations to coordinate lobbying efforts and provide technical expertise. It participates in EU transparency mechanisms and maintains a presence in Brussels to engage with policymakers. IFEAT also supports educational initiatives and industry events to promote best practices and innovation in the essential oils sector.