PPWR: New EU Packaging Rules?
- Annkaren Wambui
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read
🔓Think your business is ready for the PPWR? Download the factsheet and FAQs to learn essential details to be ready.
Are You Ready for the EU’s New Packaging Law?Summary: Regulation (EU) 2025/40, known as the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), transforms how goods are packaged and placed on the EU market. From 12 August 2026, it introduces new obligations covering packaging design, recyclability, technical documentation, traceability and substance restrictions, while supporting the EU's transition towards a circular economy. For businesses, this means reviewing packaging, supply chains and compliance processes to meet harmonised EU requirements and prepare for the Regulation's application. |
What is the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR)?
The PPWR is a total overhaul of the EU's waste framework, shifting from a "take-make-waste" model to a circular economy. Entering into force in early 2025 and applying from 12 August 2026, it aims to harmonize rules across all Member States so businesses don't have to navigate 27 different "green" laws. It covers every piece of packaging—from industrial pallets to the tiny sugar sachet in your espresso—ensuring everything is recyclable by 2030.
How will this change your daily business operations?
If you are an "economic operator" (manufacturer, importer, or distributor), the honeymoon period for "excessive" packaging is over. You’ll need to shrink the empty space in boxes and ensure your plastic contains a minimum amount of recycled content.
Requirement | Deadline | Target/Rule |
Recyclability | 2030 | All packaging must be designed for recycling |
Empty Space | 2030 | Max 50% empty space in e-commerce/transport boxes |
Plastic Bags | 2025 | Max 40 lightweight bags per person annually |
Reuse (Drinks) | 2030 | 10% of beverages in reusable packaging |
Why is the EU banning mini shampoo bottles and ketchup sachets?
Starting in 2030, certain single-use formats are banned when sustainable alternatives are available. This includes individual portions in restaurants, grouped films for multipacks, and those tiny hotel toiletries. While some might argue this is "over-regulation," the goal is to stop 35 kg of plastic waste per person from clogging our seas. If you’re a takeaway business, you must let customers bring their own containers by 2027—at no extra charge.
Does this affect imports from outside the EU?
Absolutely. Importers must ensure that any packaging coming into the EU market has undergone a "conformity assessment." You are responsible for maintaining technical documentation for 5 to 10 years to prove compliance. If you're shipping from the UK or US into the EU, your packaging must speak the same "green" language as the internal market, or you'll face recalls and fines.
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🎥 EU PPWR: Preparing for Compliance
In this video, Customs Manager explains the European Union's new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) and what businesses need to do before the Regulation becomes applicable on 12 August 2026. Learn who the PPWR applies to, the new requirements for packaging design, recyclability, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), and the practical compliance steps manufacturers, exporters, importers and distributors should take to prepare for the new rules. Whether you place packaged goods on the EU market or support international supply chains, this video provides practical guidance to help strengthen packaging compliance and reduce regulatory risk.
How Customs Manager Ltd Can Support You:
Expert Consultancy & Advice: Discuss the implications of the PPWR and EU packaging rules for your specific context. Schedule a free 1-hour consultancy call. Book at www.customsmanager.org → Book Expert Call.
UK Customs Clearance: We act as direct and indirect customs agents. Let us break down the Brexit border so you can trade almost as you did in the old days.
Specialized Training: Get in-depth training on the New EU Packaging Rules (PPWR). We offer live, on-demand (pre-recorded), and in-house training for you and your team. Visit www.customsmanager.org -> Events to see what’s coming up.
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Author
Ann Karen | Head of Growth
Updated: August 2026
Related Topics
#PPWR #EUPackaging #CircularEconomy #Sustainability #CustomsCompliance #GreenTrade #WasteReduction #EULaw #TradeIntelligence #PackagingReform
Disclaimer
This article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, customs or tax advice. Businesses should seek professional advice based on their individual trading arrangements and compliance obligations.
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