PFAS-related litigation in France will accelerate, with the class action near Lyon expected to become the largest of its kind in Europe. The legal environment in respect of PFAS is shifting rapidly, with France banning PFAS in cosmetics, clothing, footwear, and ski waxes from 2026, and in all textiles from 2030, marking a regulatory turning point. Enhanced monitoring of drinking water is also underway. The 'polluter pays' principle is also gaining traction, increasing the risk of significant indemnity exposures for both liability and environmental lines. Insurers must be aware of the introduction of additional regulatory requirements, which will drive up compliance costs and could trigger coverage disputes, especially for legacy and silent exposures.




