The EU’s new packaging law: What you need to know (PPWR)

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2026
BDO Customs & International Trade Updates
The EU’s new packaging law: What you need to know (PPWR)

The EU’s new packaging law: What you need to know (PPWR)

Major changes in how businesses use packaging are coming in the form of the Packaging & Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). This new EU regulation will apply from 12th August 2026 and marks one of the most significant developments in EU packaging rules in over 30 years.

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The goals of PPWR include:

Reducing packaging waste
Increasing reusability, and recycling rates
Create a circular economy for packaging.

It replaces the 1994 Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive with a single, harmonised regulation that applies directly across all EU countries.

Who it applies to

All businesses placing packaging on the EU market
All packaging types (primary, secondary, transport, e-commerce, etc)

The PPWR will create requirements spanning the entire lifecycle of packaging – from design through to waste management.

Companies will need to focus on:

Reducing unnecessary packaging
Restrictions on harmful substances in packaging (Eg. PFAS & heavy metals)
Recyclability
Labelling and transparency
Reuse and refill options

What does this mean for your business?

While the key deadline to be mindful of at the moment is 12th August 2026, there are further requirements which will be phased in over time, so preparation now is vital.

Key steps businesses can take include:

Understand your scope: What packaging do you use? Where is it placed on the EU market?
Review your packaging portfolio: Are materials easily recyclable? Identify inefficient or excessive packaging.
Engage suppliers: Gather technical data on packaging materials and design.
Clarify your role: Your compliance obligations will differ based on your role in the supply chain under PPWR. Do you need to register with EPR bodies? Do you need to create a Declaration of Conformity?
Data management: Ensure you have robust systems for storing packaging data, organising documentation and recording traceability.

How BDO can help?

Assess PPWR readiness
Identify compliance gaps
Build practical implementation plans.

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BDO Global Trade Services

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