Council Supports EPR Simplification for Small Packaging Producers

EU Member states have agreed their position on a proposal that could make it easier for small packaging producers to meet extended producer responsibility (EPR) requirements in other EU countries.

Under the proposal, companies established in the EU would not need to appoint an authorised representative in another Member State if they place less than one tonne of packaging or packaged products on that market per calendar year.

The change would affect requirements under the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR). At present, companies selling packaging or packaged products in another Member State may need to appoint a local authorised representative to meet their EPR obligations.

The Council’s position also includes a safeguard for cases where a producer does not comply with its EPR obligations. The proposed suspension would be reviewed by the European Commission by the end of 2030 and is currently expected to expire in 2032.

This is not a final change to the law. The Council can now begin negotiations with the European Parliament. Existing EPR and authorised-representative requirements therefore continue to apply until the final legislation is agreed and adopted.

Source: Council of the European Union – Simplification: Council agrees negotiating stance to cut red tape for small packaging producers