On the 12th August 2026, the first major compliance deadline under the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) comes into effect. From this date, all packaging entering the EU market must comply with the first major set of requirements introduced under the new regulation, and if it doesn’t comply, it won’t be able to be placed on the EU market.
While PPWR is an EU Regulation, its impact extends beyond EU-based organisations. For UK businesses that manufacture, import, distribute or export packaged goods into the EU, this new regulation will also apply, which makes this a particularly important deadline for organisations trading across European markets.
Understanding what changes on 12th August, what requirements come later, and the steps businesses should be taking now can help avoid disruption and ensure compliance as the Regulation continues to be implemented.
Why is the 12th August important?
PPWR entered into force in February 2025, but businesses were given an 18-month transition period before many of the Regulation’s requirements became applicable.
The PPWR 12th August deadline marks the start of the first operational obligations. While additional requirements will continue to be introduced over the coming years, this is the first point at which businesses placing packaging on the EU market must actively demonstrate compliance.
Who does PPWR apply to?
PPWR applies to those placing packaging or packaged products on the EU market, regardless of where the business is based. This means that UK businesses trading with the EU may also need to comply with the Regulation if they supply packaged goods into EU Member States.
You can read more about PPWR and what UK businesses need to know here.
What are the new PPWR rules that come into effect in August?
The changes being introduced in the August PPWR compliance deadline include the following:
Restrictions on certain substances
All packaging must comply with the strict limits on heavy metals, while food contact packaging must also meet the new concentration limits (PFAS), commonly known as ‘forever chemicals’.
Conformity assessments and technical documentation
Manufacturers and importers must complete conformity assessments and draw up a formal written declaration verifying that their packaging meets PPWR standards.
Manufacturer and importer identification
Packaging will need to include information identifying the responsible manufacturer and, where applicable, the importer. This improves traceability throughout the entire supply chain.
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)
For those placing packaging on the EU market, businesses may also need to register with EPR schemes in the relevant member states. These obligations vary depending on where products are sold, making it particularly important for businesses operating across multiple countries to understand their responsibilities.
What doesn’t apply until after August 2026?
While August 2026 introduces the first major compliance requirements, it’s only the beginning of PPWR’s phased implementation. Following the August 2026 deadline, organisations should continue preparing for future PPWR requirements, such as:
What UK businesses should be doing now to prepare for PPWR
- Review packaging materials and chemical compliance – UK businesses selling into multiple EU countries should review how packaging data is collected, structured, and reported.
- Engage with your suppliers – Request evidence that packaging materials comply with the new requirements, including restrictions on heavy metals and, where applicable, PFAS.
- Assess technical documentation – Ensure the necessary conformity assessments and supporting documentation are in place, including an EU Declaration of Conformity where required.
- Understand your producer obligations – If you place packaging on the EU market, determine whether you need to register with Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes in the relevant Member States.
- Plan for future compliance milestones– Building compliance into your packaging strategy now will make future implementation significantly easier.
Frequently asked questions
What is the PPWR compliance deadline?
The first major PPWR compliance deadline is 12th August 2026. From this date, packaging placed on the EU market must comply with the first set of applicable requirements under the Regulation, including restrictions on certain substances, conformity assessments, technical documentation and manufacturer or importer identification. Additional PPWR requirements will be introduced in phases over the following years.
Is there a grace period after August 2026?
No. Once the applicable requirements come into effect on 12th August 2026, packaging placed on the EU market is expected to comply with the Regulation. Businesses should therefore use the transition period before the deadline to review their packaging, engage suppliers, and prepare the necessary documentation.
What happens if I don’t meet the PPWR compliance deadline?
Packaging that does not meet the applicable PPWR requirements cannot legally be placed on the EU market. Failure to comply could result in products being prevented from entering the market, enforcement action by the relevant authorities, supply chain disruption, and additional costs associated with redesigning packaging or addressing compliance issues.
Does PPWR apply to businesses outside the EU?
Yes. PPWR applies to packaging placed on the EU market, regardless of where the business is based. This means UK businesses that manufacture, import, distribute or export packaged goods into the EU may need to comply with the Regulation. If your products are supplied to EU customers or through EU distributors, it’s important to understand which obligations apply to your business.
Preparing for the PPWR compliance deadline?
The August 2026 deadline is only the beginning of a wider programme of packaging compliance requirements. Whether your business is assessing your obligations, reviewing packaging, or preparing supplier documentation, our team of specialists can help you understand what applies to your organisation and build a practical roadmap towards compliance.
Get in touch with our team today: info@mcgradyclarke.com
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