PPWR
Regulation (EU) 2025/40 — Packaging and packaging waste
Topic : Packaging · Level : Regional
Today
Applies since 12 Aug 2026. Labelling act overdue (planned Q4 2026). EPR rep. suspension: EP and Council positions Oct 2026.
Summary
PPWR replaces the Packaging Directive with a directly applicable regulation, in force across the EU since 12 August 2026. It sets conformity, PFAS, EPR, labelling, recyclability and recycled-content rules for all packaging.
Who is concerned
- Turnover
- non précisé
- Employees
- Micro firms exempt from some duties
- Listed company
- non précisé
- Sectors
- All packaged goods
- Packaging makers
- E-commerce
- Food and beverage
- Triggering activities
- Making or filling packaging sold in EU
- Importing packaged products
- Selling to EU end users from abroad
- Extraterritorial reach
- Yes
Non-EU producers selling to EU users must appoint an EPR authorised representative; foreign packaging must meet EU rules.
- Examples
- Chinese packaging maker supplying EU brands
- Cosmetics brand importing filled bottles
- Cross-border e-commerce seller
What the law requires
- Draw up technical documentation and an EU declaration of conformity
- Respect PFAS limits in food-contact packaging since 12 Aug 2026
- Register for EPR in each Member State, via a representative if non-EU
- Prepare for recyclability grades and recycled-content targets from 2030
Penalties
Set by Member States (national rules due by 12 Feb 2027); must be effective, proportionate and dissuasive.
What this changes for a supplier in China
Chinese packaging makers must supply material composition, substances and recyclability data so EU buyers can sign the declaration of conformity.
Expected evidence
- Material composition and substance declaration
- PFAS test report for food-contact items
- Recycled content certificate
Tiers : Tier 1-2