Sprache: DE
The New EU Packaging Regulation (PPWR)
EU 2025/40
What changes in 2026 for manufacturers, importers and distributors?
What is the new EU packaging regulation (PPWR)?
The new EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR – Regulation (EU) 2025/40) replaces the former Packaging Directive. It will apply directly in all EU Member States starting August 12, 2026, and aims to reduce packaging waste, improve recycling, and harmonise the internal market for packaging.
Who is affected by the new EU packaging law?
The regulation applies to all companies that place packaging on the EU market, regardless of packaging type or whether the products are B2B or B2C.
This includes:
- Manufacturers of packaging
- Importers of packaged products from non-EU countries
- Distributors, such as retailers, online sellers and marketplaces
Obligations for Packaging Manufacturers
What do packaging manufacturers need to comply with under the new EU packaging regulation?
- Packaging design: Packaging must be as lightweight and compact as possible. Elements such as false bottoms, double walls or excessive void space are prohibited.
- Recyclability: All packaging must be recyclable. For plastic packaging, minimum recycled content requirements apply.
- Labelling & compliance declaration: Packaging must be properly labelled. A declaration of conformity and technical documentation must be available.
- Manufacturer registration: Companies must register in the national manufacturer register and submit annual data reports.
- Authorised representative: Companies without an EU establishment must appoint an authorised representative in the EU to fulfil legal obligations.
Obligations for Importers of Packaging
What importers must do under the new EU packaging rules?
- Ensure compliance: Imported packaging must meet all requirements of the new EU regulation.
- Maintain documentation: Technical documentation proving compliance must be kept for 10 years and presented to authorities upon request.
- Importer labelling: The importer’s name and address must be displayed on the packaging or in accompanying documents.
- Logistics & storage compliance: Compliance must be maintained throughout storage and transport.
- Appoint an EU representative: Importers based outside the EU must designate an authorised representative located in the EU.
Obligations for Distributors of Packaging
What the new EU packaging regulation means for retailers and marketplaces?
- Verify supplier compliance: Before placing products on the market, distributors must ensure that manufacturers are registered and packaging is compliant.
- Supply chain responsibility: Distributors must ensure all suppliers follow the packaging law.
- Recall non-compliant products: Products that don’t comply must not be sold and must be recalled if already on the market. Authorities must be informed.
- Online platforms: Marketplaces must check that sellers have valid registrations and only sell compliant packaging.
- Non-EU sellers: If based outside the EU, sellers must appoint an authorised EU representative to act on their behalf.
When does the new EU packaging regulation apply?
- Published: January 2025
- Enters into force: February 11, 2025
- Applies from: August 12, 2026 (with some transitional rules until 2030 or later)
Conclusion: Prepare now for packaging compliance in the EU
Die neue EU-Verpackungsverordnung betrifft alle Unternehmen, die Verpackungen auf dem europäischen Markt nutzen oder vertreiben. Wer rechtzeitig aktiv wird – z. B. durch Registrierung, Umstellung der Verpackung oder Benennung eines Bevollmächtigten – sichert nicht nur die eigene Lieferfähigkeit, sondern vermeidet auch Bußgelder.
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