Skip to main content
search

June 25, 2025

In early 2024, the FDA announced it would retire WebTrader, the web-based site hosting the electronic submission gateway (ESG) for regulatory submissions in 2025. In its place, a new cloud-based system called FDA ESG NextGen went live on Monday, April 14. In this blog, I’ll explain how FDA ESG NextGen differs from WebTrader.

As a frontrunner in the drug development industry, Certara’s Regulatory Operations team, alongside roughly three hundred others across the industry, participated in User Acceptance Testing (UAT), which began in July 2024 and concluded in November 2024. Testing was conducted in three waves; each was designed to test various functionalities of the cloud-based platform and ensure it was ready for deployment. Participation in these testing phases provided valuable insight into the vast improvements planned for the gateway and the potential benefits of the upgrade from end-to-end.

What is FDA ESG NextGen, and how does it streamline regulatory submissions?

There are many features that will ultimately simplify the process of completing the transmission of eCTD (electronic Common Technical Document) submission packages to the FDA. Here are a few of the key benefits that explain why the FDA is transitioning to ESG NextGen:

  • Significant submission size limit increased from WebTrader’s 8GB to 1TB available in release one of ESGNG. Further increases to file size are planned for future releases. This will allow sponsors to submit applications with increased amounts of data and avoid the need to split applications into separate submissions.
  • The digital signing certificate binds together the owner’s name and a pair of electronic keys (a public key and a private key) that can be used to sign documents. Ever have trouble obtaining a digital signing certificate? You’re not alone. With ESGNG, a digital signing certificate is no longer needed. In its place, the widely adopted e-Signature is used to sign submission packages.
  • The file upload experience is enhanced with the use of a simple plug-in (FileCatalyst) that provides multi-thread capabilities to allow multiple submissions to be sent concurrently, showcasing an accelerated file upload performance and efficient user interface.
  • ESGNG allows users to check the status of submission via the Unified Submission Portal (USP) and to view details provided on FDA acknowledgements. The user who submitted no longer needs to retrieve the corresponding FDA acknowledgements. Other users can also monitor the status of a submission and view the FDA receipt information.
  • User Management Functions allow companies to assign roles to submitters, which define what actions can be performed.

What are the user roles and their functions in FDA ESG NextGen?

Two essential roles are available for industry leaders.

  • Power Users – users with this role can edit company info, approve/deny user requests within the company, and have full access to all submissions of the company.
  • Submitter – users with this role are limited to creating submission packages; they can view only the submissions they created and request a role change.

Frequently asked questions

When will the FDA release ESGNG for the pharmaceutical and biotech industry?

ESG NextGen is currently available effective April 14, 2025.

How do I register a new account for FDA ESG NextGen?

Understanding the two entities in ESGNG will help answer this question best for your situation. The two entities are Company and Agency.

  • A Company is a US or international business entity that uses ESGNG to file required regulatory or voluntary submissions to the FDA.
  • An Agency can be a Contract Research Organization (CRO), a U.S. agent company (a liaison that ensures proper and timely communication between the FDA and a foreign pharmaceutical company), or a consulting company.

Identifying which entity applies to you is key to completing the registration process correctly. If you are an agency, you must obtain and upload a letter authorizing you to submit on behalf of a company. This letter of authorization (LOA) needs to be uploaded for every company you work for before you can complete any submissions on their behalf.

A non-repudiation letter (NRL) is also required and certifies electronic signatures. A companywide NRL or an individual NRL is acceptable.

Can I continue to use WebTrader when ESGNG goes live?

No. FDA plans to retire WebTrader and will only accept submission packages using ESGNG starting April 14.

Can I continue to use ESGNG for submissions to Health Canada?

Yes. ESGNG functions in the same manner as using WebTrader for eCTD submissions to Health Canada.

Closing Remarks

ESG NextGen will simplify the process of registering new users, submitting and managing submission packages. As the industry continues to evolve, you can count on Certara’s team of regulatory operations industry leaders and experts to remain informed and adapt to new and exciting trends and provide cutting-edge technology like our GlobalSubmit eCTD submission software.

Carrie Ngangnang

Senior Regulatory Operations Specialist

Carrie Ngangnang is a Senior Regulatory Operations Specialist with several years of experience in regulatory operations electronic publishing, serving as project lead on multiple application types and over 20 years serving in leadership roles, managing people and projects ranging from few to 300+ stakeholders.

Streamline your regulatory operations for global compliance

Certara’s regulatory operations services team ensures effective and efficient submissions across global health authorities. With our seasoned professionals and advanced GlobalSubmit™ eCTD software, we provide the expertise and tools you need to meet regulatory requirements, avoid submission delays, and maintain global compliance.

Learn moreContact us

Schedule a demo of GlobalSubmit eCTD Software

Experience the power of GlobalSubmit eCTD Software in action. Schedule a demo to see how it can revolutionize your submission process, enhance compliance, and reduce risks.

Why request a demo?

Explore intuitive workflows and advanced features in real-time.
Learn how the software ensures global compliance and error-free submissions.
See how automation can accelerate your time to market.