Pakete: EU-Staaten wollen Ausnahme bei umstrittener Verpackungsregel

Brussels - European Union nations are seeking an exemption for European companies that produce minimal packaging for export from a contentious new requirement. Since August, any company selling goods in other EU member states must designate a representative. This is intended to ensure that disposal costs for packaging are borne.

The EU states want this obligation to apply only to European manufacturers that transport at least one tonne of packaging waste per calendar year within a country. The aim is to reduce the disproportionate burden on small packaging manufacturers. No change is expected for companies based outside the EU. Violation of a manufacturer's obligations could also mean the exemption is forfeited.

The EU agreement paves the way for negotiations with the European Parliament. Members had expressed support for exemptions for small companies in the EU on Tuesday. They define these as companies with fewer than 50 employees, an annual turnover under 10 million euros, or a balance sheet total under 10 million euros. An amendment can only take effect if both institutions agree.

The EU Commission had already proposed in December 2025 to waive the obligation for European manufacturers to designate representatives. Germany intends not to impose fines for violations until February 2027. Disagreement over the rules remains, but they also affect small traders sending individual orders abroad. Several small merchants expressed their frustration on social media in the summer and announced they would send goods to fewer countries.