New EU packaging rules are now in force, and they can make the importer — not just the brand owner — responsible for compliance and reporting. If you import through A Traders, or are considering it, here’s what actually applies.
PPWR and EPR are two different things:
- PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation) is the EU law itself. It sets requirements for how packaging must be designed and documented — including a signed Declaration of Conformity (DoC) for each packaging type, linked to a unique packaging ID.
- EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) is the reporting and fee obligation that follows from it. It runs through a national Producer Responsibility Organisation in each country — Verpact in the Netherlands — based on the weight and material of packaging placed on that country’s market.
In short: PPWR is about proving your packaging is compliant; EPR is about registering and paying for it, country by country.
Where A Traders fits in: as an importer, we may be the party responsible for both — depending on whose brand the goods carry and how the shipment is structured. This isn’t the same for every client, which is why we assess it case by case rather than assuming one answer fits all.
How it works
- Free quick scan. Tell us about your product, packaging, and how goods reach the EU market.
- We determine who’s responsible. Based on your specific supply chain — this differs by situation and isn’t something we assume in advance.
- We map what’s needed. Declaration of Conformity, packaging IDs, and EPR registration per relevant country.
- Ongoing support, if needed. For clients who want us to handle documentation and registration on an ongoing basis.
Frequently asked questions
Am I responsible for this if I use an Importer of Record?
It depends on your specific supply chain — this is exactly what the quick scan is for.
Does this apply per country, or once for the whole EU?
Per country. Verpact covers the Netherlands only; every other EU country has its own equivalent organisation.
What happens if I don’t comply?
Since PPWR became fully applicable on 12 August 2026, this is a current obligation, not a future one. Non-compliance carries risk, e.g. restricted market access, fines, or delays.
Is the quick scan really free?
Yes. If deeper registration or ongoing compliance support is needed afterward, that’s a separate, clearly quoted service.