Standstill Approach regarding Transport, Service and Primary Production Packaging
Verpact is asking producers and packaging companies to continue, for the time being, to operate under the current responsibilities for transport, service and primary production packaging. This request is prompted by the ongoing uncertainty in the market regarding the interpretation of the European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) in relation to these packaging categories.
To provide clarity for businesses, Verpact has asked the European Commission for an unambiguous explanation of the roles and responsibilities defined under the new regulation. Until such clarification is provided, Verpact has chosen to adopt a temporary ‘standstill’ approach. This will provide greater short-term certainty for businesses and help prevent an uneven playing field with neighboring countries. Under this temporary approach, Verpact will continue to apply the existing responsibilities in the Netherlands for transport, service and primary production packaging. Market participants are therefore requested to continue following current practices after 12 August 2026. Should further clarification regarding transport, service and primary production packaging become available at a later stage, this may have consequences with retroactive effect from 12 August 2026.
Background
The PPWR is a European regulation based on the principles of the EU internal market. As a result, obligations should be applied consistently across all Member States. Within a harmonized legal framework, there should be no ambiguity regarding which party is considered the manufacturer of transport, service or primary production packaging, and consequently who is responsible for meeting the obligations arising from the PPWR. However, different interpretations of the PPWR currently exist regarding responsibility for transport, service and primary production packaging.
Seeking Clarity
As the organization responsible for implementing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for packaging in the Netherlands, Verpact supports the objectives of the PPWR. During this temporary standstill period, Verpact will continue to urge the European Commission to provide a clear interpretation/explanation of the legislation. Only a clear and unambiguous framework will allow the regulation to be implemented in a harmonized, predictable, fair and transparent manner. Verpact will also continue to actively inform market participants and answer questions wherever possible. FAQ We understand that you may have many questions regarding this situation.
FAQs
We understand that you may have many questions regarding this situation. Please consult our FAQs for more information.