EU Packaging Regulation set to reshape requirements for UK exporters

7 July 2026

 

The European Union's new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) is introducing significant new requirements for packaging placed on the EU market, with important implications for UK businesses exporting goods to EU customers.

Although the regulation is an EU measure, many UK manufacturers and exporters trading with the European market will need to understand and prepare for the new rules to ensure continued market access.

The PPWR aims to reduce packaging waste, improve recyclability and support the transition to a more circular economy. Unlike the previous Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive, the new regulation applies directly across all EU Member States, creating a more consistent set of requirements.

The regulation entered into force in February 2025 and is being implemented in phases over several years. The majority of the general obligations will begin to apply from 12 August 2026, with businesses expected to comply with new packaging design, recyclability and information requirements.

Additional measures, including recycled content targets, reuse obligations and further sustainability requirements, will be introduced progressively between 2028 and 2030, with some provisions extending beyond 2030 depending on the specific requirement.

This phased approach gives businesses time to adapt but also highlights the importance of reviewing packaging strategies well ahead of each compliance deadline.

For UK exporters, compliance with the regulation may become a commercial necessity when supplying goods to customers within the EU.

Potential implications include:

  • Packaging may need to meet new design and recyclability requirements.
  • Certain packaging formats could be restricted or phased out over time.
  • Additional labelling and information requirements may apply.
  • Businesses may need to review packaging materials, suppliers and product specifications.
  • EU customers may increasingly request evidence that packaging complies with the new rules.

The regulation also introduces minimum recycled content requirements for certain plastic packaging, alongside measures designed to minimise unnecessary packaging and improve packaging reuse, with specific targets applying at different stages of the implementation timeline.

While many of the legal obligations apply to businesses placing packaging on the EU market, UK exporters may still be expected to demonstrate compliance as part of customer, distributor or supply chain requirements.

As the first major requirements begin to apply from 12 August 2026, UK exporters should work closely with their EU customers and packaging suppliers to understand how the regulation affects their products and supply chains. Taking action early will help businesses prepare for future compliance deadlines and minimise disruption to trade.

The PPWR is another reminder that successful exporting increasingly depends not only on customs compliance but also on meeting evolving product and environmental regulations within overseas markets.

 

By Carla Assunção, Chamber International

 

Businesses looking to strengthen their knowledge in this area may also be interested in our new Exporting to the EU: Customs, Compliance & New Packaging Rules (PPWR) online workshop on 11 August. The workshop provides practical guidance to help businesses prepare for the latest EU regulations. Find out more and reserve your place.