European Commission defines foundations for new packaging registers under the PPWR
The European Commission is currently working, as part of its REFIT programme (“Regulatory Fitness and Performance Programme”), on EU-wide binding standards for packaging registers. This initiative is part of the new EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), which provides for a comprehensive reform of producer obligations in the packaging sector.
From August 2026, all EU Member States will be required to introduce a national packaging register or adapt existing systems to the new European requirements. These registers are intended to cover all companies that place packaging on the market for the first time, thereby ensuring the implementation of extended producer responsibility (EPR).
The Commission’s objective is to create greater transparency in the European circular economy through harmonised registers and clear standards. While countries such as Germany already operate functional registers, significant gaps exist in other Member States – in many cases, a legally defined structure is still lacking.
The planned requirements form the basis for key EPR obligations that will become binding as of 12 August 2026. These include, among others:
mandatory registration of producers and importers,
the organisation and financing of the take-back and recovery of packaging waste,
the recognition and supervision of so-called producer responsibility organisations,
the obligation to appoint a national authorised representative for foreign companies without an establishment,
as well as new due diligence obligations for online marketplaces and service providers.
The Commission’s work is expected to be completed by early 2026. Concrete requirements and procedures are expected in the first quarter of 2026 to initiate the transition to the new packaging register system across Europe. The full restructuring of EPR frameworks is likely to extend over the period from 2026 to 2028.
