ESMA consults on guidelines on endorsement under the ESG Ratings Regulation

The consultation paper sets out ESMA’s proposed approach to the endorsement of non-EU ESG ratings under the regulatory framework and seeks feedback from ESG rating providers and other stakeholders on the draft guidelines. 

The guidelines aim to support the consistent application of the endorsement regime, in particular, by providing guidance on the information to be submitted as part of an ESG Rating Provider’s application to endorse ESG ratings.  

By consulting publicly, ESMA is seeking input on the proposed guidelines to ensure the guidance is clear, proportionate and workable in practice, while remaining aligned with the objectives of the ESG Ratings Regulation.  

Background 

The ESG Ratings Regulation establishes a regulatory framework for providers of ESG ratings in the European Union. As part of this framework, and in order to ensure market integrity and investor protection, the Regulation includes provisions which set out how ESG rating providers that are established in the Union can endorse ratings from outside the Union. 

To support the implementation of these provisions, ESMA has developed draft guidelines on endorsement under the ESG Ratings Regulation.  

Next steps 

ESMA welcomes comments on the consultation paper until 29 May 2026. The feedback received will be considered by ESMA in the finalisation of the guidelines.  

Following the consultation, ESMA will assess the responses and decide on the final form of the guidelines, in line with its mandate under the ESG Ratings Regulation. Further information on the outcome of the consultation and the adoption of the guidelines will be communicated before the end of July 2026.  

Further information:

Tayfun Yilmaz

Communications Officer
press@esma.europa.eu