Since 12 August 2026, the PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation) has been directly applicable in all EU Member States. For companies selling across EU borders or through online marketplaces such as Amazon and eBay, further national requirements may apply. Complete and accurate product data is, therefore, becoming essential for staying compliant and keeping products on the market.
PPWR breaches can cost you your business
Missing registrations, incorrect labels or incomplete compliance documents can quickly result in legal action. In Germany, certain PPWR breaches can lead to fines of up to 100,000 euros. Companies should therefore check compliance carefully before products are imported or sold. Warning letters should also be reviewed before signing, as they can create long-term legal obligations and additional costs.
How to avoid compliance pitfalls
The key is to have the right data available from the start. Companies should:
- Record packaging and identify the relevant legal requirements.
- Keep registrations, test reports and compliance documents complete and up to date.
- Require suppliers to provide the necessary technical and compliance data.
- Store regulatory product data in a structured way across PIM, ERP and shop systems.
- Approve products for sale only when all required information is available.
Other product risks should also be checked, including energy labels, product information, trademark and image rights, and environmental claims.
More regulations are already on the horizon
Further EU rules are expected in 2026, including detailed requirements for recycled content, recycling processes and recycled materials from outside the EU. This entails more legal conditions for data, traceability, documentation and testing, potentially causing even more effort and expenses, especially for smaller companies.
All in all, compliance is becoming a true data challenge. trade-e-bility helps companies collect, manage and verify regulatory product data early, so they can meet requirements efficiently and keep products ready for the EU market.
